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DEKALB COUNTY FARM BUREAU ®
June 2021
www.CultivateConnections.org
Your farm is your legacy
Let us help you protect it with customized farm insurance.
Phil Hasz David Gingerich Dan Howes
(815)756-8026 (815)784-6688 (815)756-9536
Steve Klopfenstein Kathy Martin Dean Miller
(815)824-2920 (815)786-6584 (815)748-7064
Chris Patterson Craig Popp Mike Shipley
(815)756-9536 (815)756-9536 (815)756-9536
Karolina Skinner Gavin Wilson
(815)786-2209 (815)748-7064
Farm insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, Illinois.
0820-505HC_B_68662-1/20/2021
Connecting to you
Steve Bemis, DeKalb County farm Bureau President
Good start to farm year
What a difference a year makes!
This spring was one of the best in recent years for getting
the crop in the ground. Tillage conditions were ideal and
by the first part of May a large percentage of the crops
were planted and emerged with no major issues. Another
positive has been the commodity prices and the significant
improvements they have made this spring.
But as a farmer, I am cautiously optimistic until harvest is
here and I more accurately know crop results for the year.
In the meantime I still have to worry about major weather
patterns, pest issues, outside influences on my marketing
strategies and legislative impacts on my farm. Like many our footprint is still large. That’s why I urge farmers to
small businesses, there are several things which are out of become more active in advocacy and speak out on issues
my control. that affect you. Together, with Farm Bureau, our voice
But that doesn’t mean I just sit back and watch things will remain strong.
evolve. As a farmer it’s important to monitor issues which I hope 2021 is a good year for agriculture in DeKalb
impact agriculture and speak on behalf of agriculture. We County and a better year for all members as we arise from
are fewer in numbers than we were a generation ago, but the pandemic and move forward. ■
features
4 Dairy Trends
See the top five trends impacting dairy
10 ask a farm family
Find out why farmers spray their crops
11 DeKalb County 4-H fair returns
Check out the schedule for an in-person fair
14 65th year of Senior Scholarships
Recognize students earning FB awards
16 Welcome Back with Pork Chop Drive-Thru
Return to Farm Bureau for this fundraiser
18 Creating Cover Designs
Meet the winning students and see their designs
22 Best in State
Learn about local FFA students who won at state
On the cover: The winner of the Farm Bureau cover design contest was
Jaxen Foster of Shabbona with his “Why Farms Matter” design.
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 1
On Prairie Drive
mariam Wassmann, Editor
Calendar
Kids Connect to ag
JuNE
“Everything we eat and wear comes from the June 14-17
farm” – Kayden Mikalauskas Summer Ag Institute for Teachers
“Wheat is made into flour which turns into cookies
for me!” – Grace Kupp JuLy
“Eggs come from chickens; beef comes from July 5
Independence Day Holiday
cattle; dairy cows produce milk.” – Paisley Finney
Farm Bureau Office closed
“Farming matters because without farmers our
food that we get daily nutrition from would be July 7-8
scarce.” – Ava Frances DeKalb County 4-H General Projects
Show
These statements were made by Indian Creek students, some of the young
children who participated in our cover design contest. Looking over the entries, I July 12
was impressed by what the students conveyed in writing and in drawings. Welcome Back to Farm Bureau
Drive-Thru
Our local teachers are doing a great job of teaching students about food and farm
4:30 – 6 p.m.
production. And to help them, our Farm Bureau Ag Literacy Program provides
$13.50, Purchase meals by July 7
resources and support for those classroom discussions.
Why is this so important? By growing knowledge of agriculture we are auGuST
connecting them to their source of food, fiber and fuel. We also know that they will Aug. 6-8
be consumers someday and hopefully allies of our industry. The more they know DeKalb County 4-H Livestock Show
about food production the better prepared they are to talk about it as adults. Sandwich Fairgrounds
It’s also important that young students realize the significance of agriculture here
in DeKalb County. Our county’s land base is primarily agriculture. Farming has a Farm Bureau Office
big impact on our local economy generating tax dollars needed for our schools and Open for Business
creating jobs throughout the farm and food sectors. The Farm Bureau office is open
I hope you enjoy looking at the winning designs as much as I did. Congratulations Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
to all the students who are being recognized in this issue. ■ Please stop by or call 815-756-6361
to reach us and to meet with staff.
CONNECTIONS find the kernel and win!
June 2021 - Vol. 8, No. 5
Connections (Print) ISSN 2374-0108, Connections Let’s see if you can find the kernel
(Online) ISSN 2374-0299 is published monthly (with (resembling the one here) in this month’s follow us!
combined issues April/May, Sept./Oct.) by the DeKalb
County Farm Bureau, 1350 W. Prairie Drive, Sycamore, issue of our magazine and be eligible to
facebook.com/dekalbcountyfarmbureau
IL 60178. Periodical postage paid rates Sycamore, IL
60178. $2 per year paid with DeKalb County Farm
win a prize.
Bureau membership dues. Postmaster: Send address Email your answer to connections@ instagram.com/dekalbcountyfarmbureau
changes to Connections, DeKalb County Farm Bureau,
1350 W. Prairie Dr., Sycamore, IL 60178.© 2021
dekalbfarmbureau.org or call us, 815- twitter.com/DCFBureau
DeKalb County Farm Bureau. 756-6361, by June 30 for your chance to pinterest.com/dekalbcounty
DeKalb County farm Bureau Staff win.
Greg Millburg When responding by email, please DeKalb County farm Bureau Websites
Manager include the page number and exact CONNECTIONS Magazine
Mariam Wassmann
Director of Information/Editor description of the location of the kernel www.CultivateConnections.org
Rhodora Collins on that page. You will also need to Farm Bureau Main Site
Ag Literacy Coordinator
include your name, address and phone www.DeKalbFarmBureau.org
Anna Schelkopf
Ag Literacy & Communications Specialist number in the email. Foundation for Agriculture
www.PlantALegacy.org
Sherry Johnson Correct answers will be put into a
Ag Literacy
Graphic Designer
drawing and one winner will be drawn to www.GrowYoungMinds.org
Dava Wayman
Administrative Assistant/Accounting receive a $20 gift card.
Send magazine comments to:
Diane Yunek Last month’s winner of the kernel connections@dekalbfarmbureau.org
Administrative Assistant/Membership
contest was Dennis Hall of Kingston.
Tom Marsh
Building Maintenance The kernel was hidden on page 36 in the
Santa’s Village collage of the April/May
CONNECTIONS. ■
2 CONNECTIONS June 2021
By the
NumBErS
farms matter
We rely on farms for food, fiber and fuel, among so many other things. Nearly everything we eat, wear
and use comes from a plant or animal raised on a farm.
Farms sustain us. That’s why farms matter.
• Food – Farms grow a variety of grains which are processed and used in all sorts of foods. Farms
raise livestock for meat, milk and eggs and grow fruits and vegetables for our health and nutrition.
• Fiber – Fiber crops such as cotton are used for clothing. Trees are grown for paper, and hemp is
used for making ropes. Field crops, like alfalfa and oats, contain fiber to feed livestock.
• Fuel – Some of the corn grown on farms is made into ethanol fuel and soybeans are used for
biodiesel fuel. They are considered clean-burning renewable fuels.
There are about 2,300 farms in DeKalb County. ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 3
Dairy Trends
An inside look at trends which impact the dairy industry during June Dairy Month
Dairy producers have a deep and globalization is shrinking, consumers are now even more
commitment to taking care of their supporting this more local mindset. acutely aware of how companies treat
animals and play a vital role in With more than 6,500 dairy farms their employees and they are looking
providing sustainably produced in the Midwest, milk’s journey from for an increased transparency in all
foods. Understanding consumer and the farm to the grocery story only stages of the supply chain.
market trends not only helps dairy takes about 48 hours, giving dairy a
farmers understand what is driving local story to tell.
3. Immune Health
Consumers have an increased
today’s consumer, it also uncovers
new opportunities to grow sales of
2. Conscious Consumption understanding of the connection
Conscious consumerism has been between their diet and immune health.
dairy.
a growing trend in recent years. This is not a new interest among
The top five national dairy trends
Prior to COVID-19, consumers were consumers, yet the coronavirus has
are:
already leaning into ethics and belief- accelerated the growth of this trend.
1. Demand for Local driven buying. Last year, U.S. total mass multi-
Supporting local businesses, from Over half of respondents in a 2018 outlet and convenience store dollar
farm to fork, has been the top of mind study indicated they make purchases sales of immunity products jumped
for consumers prior to the pandemic. based on their beliefs. A new study by 199%.
In fact, 50% of global consumers the IBM Institute for Business Value Fermented dairy foods such as
already associated “high quality” with in partnership with the National yogurt and kefir have live and
locally sourced products. Retail Federation found that one-third active cultures that are a source of
COVID-19 has reignited a sense of global consumers would abandon probiotics, which help aid digestive
of localism and community among even their favorite brand if it doesn’t health. Fermented milk is predicted to
consumers. Local businesses are align with their personal values. be the fastest-growing milk segment,
adapting to support their communities As a result of the pandemic, driven by digestive health benefits. ►
4 CONNECTIONS June 2021
4. E-Commerce 5. Comfort and Enjoyment
In March 2020, over half of In times of uncertainty, cutting
consumers reported that they had back is par for the course.
purchased groceries online. The However, consumers are still
pandemic has generated a huge looking for moments of comfort
group of first-time online shoppers and joy. Especially as there is
who, now having experienced the a growing understanding of
convenience of online grocery the value of slowing down,
shopping, may return. indulgence and calming benefits
In fact, 35% of consumers said they will be key.
are very likely to buy groceries online From ice cream to pizza, Deutsch on Dairy
after the stay-at-home restrictions dairy is prime for elevating real Bill Deutsch looks at what’s
have ended and 49% say they are enjoyment for today’s shopper. trending in dairy as a Sycamore
somewhat likely. With an increase in at-home farmer and Chairman of the
According to a 2020 MilkPEP meal occasions, dairy will also Illinois Division of Midwest
(Milk Processor Education Program) continue to grow in popularity as Dairy. An increase in dairy
and Kantar study, milk currently an ingredient. ■ product consumption and
ranks #9 in fastest growing categories Source: Midwest Dairy improved markets help his bottom
in e-commerce, up 279% from line.
this time a year ago. Separately, a “Consumers have more of a
MilkPEP study conducted in 2018 in role in how we farm today,” said
partnership with Inmar showed that Bill. “Their purchasing habits
shoppers adding milk to their online impact dairy farms.”
cart had a larger E-commerce basket. Also trending is sustainability
on farms. Bill has been putting
sustainability into action on
his own dairy farm. Some
examples of sustainable farming
practices include: crop rotation,
minimum tillage crop farming,
managing manure recycling, and
conservation practices.
Caring for his cows and the
environment are essential to his
dairy farm’s success.
“My goal is to leave my farm
in better environmental shape
for future generations,” said Bill.
“As a dairy farmer we have an
opportunity to improve our planet
and must do our part to help
produce wholesome and abundant
food for the world.” ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 5
the
Early year of planting
Like most things on the farm, planting is a team effort. The main team
members on our farm include my dad, my mom and me… and our ag retailer
who delivers our seed and helps us with various jobs.
Our teamwork was extra helpful this year since we were pushing pretty hard
to get planting done early. I was trying to hurry because there was rain in the
forecast (which never came, haha) and I had to get back to my other job.
In fact, one night I was in the tractor planting soybeans until 1 a.m. I don’t
think this is uncommon for most farmers. I can think of several times driving
late into the evening and still seeing tractor lights out in the field. There always
seems to be rain that is coming or some type of pressure to get crops planted at
just the right time before it gets too
This year our crops were planted late into the season.
Honestly, I don’t know how other A decaf iced latte was Elizabeth
by the end of April. We finished farmers do it. I was completely Koenig’s drink of choice while she
nice and early because we didn’t exhausted the next day!! I think my ran the planter. Elizabeth grows
dad probably was too! I called him at corn & soybeans on their family
have much rainfall to slow us farm in rural Hinckley.
down. Now we could use a little one point to come out and help me fill
the soybean drill with seed. There he
rain as the corn and soybeans came at almost midnight, out in the And my mom packed me a bag full
continue to grow. dark, to fill the drill in his pajamas. of snacks to help keep me awake.
Finally, I gave up and went home
when I figured out I still had another
four hours or so to go before I would
finish the field.
I think part of the pressure to get
planting done was based on the past
couple of years. Two years ago we
had so much rain; many farmers
were never able to plant their crops
at all! I remember going to the farm
and checking the field, day after day,
to see if the ground had dried out
enough for us to plant. Then, last
year, we got everything planted, but
had so much rain and so many little
ponds in our field that we had to
replant a large amount of the field.
We are hoping for an easier year
this year. And so far, it seems to be
looking pretty good. Crops are in the
field and no flooding... yet! We will
Paul and Elizabeth Koenig work together on their family farm. They finished planting see what happens in the next several
crops in a timely fashion this year. weeks! ■
6 CONNECTIONS June 2021
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 7
A weed is a plant
whose virtues have
yet to be discovered.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Dandelion Common Yellow Woodsorrel
Garlic Mustard
Hairy Bittercress Creeping Spurge
Pineapple Weed Cleavers
Photos courtesy of Janice Weber
8 CONNECTIONS June 2021Janice M. Weber, University of Illinois Extension, DeKalb County Master Gardener
What’s That Weed?
A weed is a plant in the wrong place.
As a small child I got a kick out of picking dandelions just to blow away
the fluff. Now I pluck them from the lawn in slow motion. Dandelions have
a bad rap because they spread so easily, but it’s important to know that their Common Yellow Woodsorrel
early flowers are a food source for hungry bees emerging from the hive. That (Oxalis stricata) is a common
fact changed my opinion of dandelions. weed that tolerates a wide range of
Most weeds don’t scream for attention like dandelions. Nevertheless, some conditions and can grow 6-15 inches
have interesting characteristics. Here are the names and descriptions of some tall. It is also called “Sheep’s Clover”
you might find in your yard. Most are notorious for their seed production. because its leaves are similar to
Cleavers (Galium aparine) has colorful common names like “Sticky clover. The half-inch yellow flowers
Willie”, “Hitchhikers”, and “Velcro Plant”. It grows fast in gardens, forests are followed by erect seed pods that
and fields. The long, lanky stems crawl along the ground and over other open explosively when touched.
plants, with this interesting feature: fine hook-like hairs on the stems and It can also form colonies from
leaves stick to you like, well, velcro. The plants are hard to pull out because underground rhizomes. This weed is
the stems break off easily. This weed is oddly attractive, but you don’t want best controlled by mulching and hand
any plant around that produces 300-400 seeds. Even the tiny white flowers weeding.
produce burrs tough enough to pass through the digestive tract of animals. Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta) is an inconspicuous spring-loaded is a highly invasive biennial that
thing that waits to be touched. Then it shoots its seeds out forcefully 10 feet smells like garlic when crushed.
or more. It is small but mighty. The plant is a winter annual which means its This plant is a menace because it is
seeds germinate in the fall and develop into small rosettes that overwinter. allelopathic which means it produces
In early spring they send up three to eight inch long stalks of small white chemicals that inhibit the growth of
flowers that produce slender seed pods. An average plant will produce 600 other plants. The first year’s growth
seeds. This one is also a summer annual. is a small rosette. The second year it
Pineapple Weed (Matricaria discoidea) gets its name from the pineapple/ shoots up a one to four foot stem that
camomile scent it produces when crushed. A native of northeast Asia, it’s an develops flowers. Put on your gloves
annual that grows in sunny gravel or compacted soils. Its taproot allows it and pull this out whenever you see it.
to survive a harsh location. The flower is a yellow-green cone at the tip of a Don’t leave a flowering plant on the
stem. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and looks like a miniature bush ground because it can set seeds. A big
with fern-like leaves. plant can produce thousands.
Creeping Spurge (Euphorbia supina) forms a flat mat. I’ve seen them It’s always best to pull out weeds
the size of a dinner plate. It’s an annual that often has purple mottling on before they flower. Mother Nature has
its leaves. When broken it drips a poisonous, white sap that can irritate tricks up her sleeve. ■
the skin and eyes. Wear gloves and pull it out by the tap root. It thrives in
full sun and drier soils. In the summer you’ll see it growing from cracks in
Email your gardening questions to
sidewalks where it stretches out over the hot surface. It would make a dense
the Master Gardener Help Desk at
groundcover, but for one serious flaw. A single plant can produce thousands
uiemg-dekalb@illinois.edu.
of seeds.
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 9Q: Why do farmers spray chemicals on crops?
A: Pesticides are safe and effective in controlling
weeds/pests and we use the least amount possible
to get the job done.
As a farmer there are a few topics that we receive push back
on from time to time. Usually it is not a criticism that we face
firsthand but rather a criticism of the food that we produce. People The Schweitzers – Amy, Mike, Eli and Warren – farm
often ask, ‘Why do farmers have to spray all of those chemicals on in rural Esmond. They grow corn, soybeans, sweet
our food?’ corn and peas and raise 4-H animals. Mike is a sixth
Pesticides have faced a reputation problem for as long as I can generation farmer.
remember.
When I began farming with my dad fifteen years ago I was
surprised at the efficacy of a spraying job well done. I know this
because my first year of spraying it was apparent that I had room is nearly negligible. The second advantage to
for improvement with my application. It was plain to see precisely spraying is that tillage degrades the soil quality
the spots that I had missed. The thing that impressed me the most causing loss of organic matter and erosion which
though was how little amount of pesticide it actually took to stop steals the soil off of our fields.
the weeds from growing. Farmers are also trained and have to pass a
If you have ever had a garden or a flower bed and used Preen Private Applicators test prior to even purchasing
to keep the weeds from taking over then you have used a pre- the restricted-use pesticides we use. We are
emerge herbicide just like we use on our farm to prevent weeds trained on reading the pesticide labels, mixing and
from growing in our fields. applying all pesticides, and ensuring safety. The
The main difference is that we are applying the least possible EPA monitors this process and help to train us to
amount of pesticide possible to still get the job done. It is in our use the right methods and techniques to not only do
best economic interest to do so. what is right for our farms, but also what is right
To ensure a good application job that uses the least amount for the community as well.
of pesticide as possible we also dilute the pesticides into a large The amount of pesticides we use to control
amount of water. This ensures that we spray the pesticides evenly the weeds and insects is literally the least
on the plants or soil. Some spray solutions are less than one percent amount that we could possibly spray and still
pesticide and then we still only spray fifteen gallons of that mix on be effective. The EPA tests the products we use to
an acre, which is roughly the size of a football field. make sure that they are not hazardous to the people
We also take meticulous care of our sprayer using the state-of- and animals that consume the food that we grow.
the-art spray tips developed to stop drift and GPS monitors to shut Is the food we produce safe? Yes. It is not only
off sections of the sprayer to prevent overlap. the food that we are producing for the consumer
Another advantage to using these pesticides has been a large but our families as well.
decrease in the amount of tillage necessary to raise a good crop. We have spent generations developing the
This may seem like a small thing in the grand scheme of things pesticides and techniques we use to grow the
but in actuality it is one of the most advantageous things for the safest, most affordable food in the world. Through
environment. Plowing, disking, field cultivating, and ripping are all scientific research, on-farm trials, innovation, and
terms for “working the ground.” The use of pesticides to do this perseverance we have closed the gap on producing
instead has a two-fold environmentally positive effect. the most we can, while effectively improving the
First it takes a lot of horsepower and a lot of fuel to till a field. soil, and dramatically curbing our emissions all by
This contributes to a direct release of greenhouse gases into the spraying the least amount to get the job done. ■
atmosphere whereas spraying to achieve the same weed control Mike Schweitzer
10 CONNECTIONS June 2021DeKalb County 4-H fair returns
The county 4-H Fair returns to General Projects Show and
normal after a year of virtual shows. Livestock Show at: http://dekalb4-
hfair.fairentry.com.
Last year the DeKalb County 4-H “So much of the fair is about
Fair was held virtually with members the comradery, seeing other 4-H
submitting photos or videos of their members and their families,” said
projects. Naturally, the lack of Johnna Jennings, Extension
in-person shows prompted Educator, 4-H Youth
a reduction in participation Development, for DeKalb-
by members. Boone-Ogle counties. “We
“We hope that getting are hoping to make this
back to normal and doing year’s fair as normal as we
things like we’ve done can following university
in the past will increase (and CDC) guidelines. Our
Fair participation, by being goal is for everyone to stay
in-person again,” said Nicole healthy and safe.”
Groezinger, 4-H Youth Development Adjustments have been made to
Program Coordinator in DeKalb the General Projects Show schedule
County. with members having to sign up for
The 4-H office is now accepting Tomi Harrod of Hinckley shows her
exact judging times in 15 minute champion goat at the 2019 4-H Fair.
online fair entries for both the increments, explained Groezinger.
Members may leave once their
DeKalb County 4-H Fair Schedule project has been judged. Project sponsored by the DeKalb Area Pork
conference judging will occur Producers and provides monetary
General Projects Show, July 7-8 in the morning and afternoon awards for placings.
DeKalb County Farm Bureau Building on July 7 and 8 in the DeKalb The other new class is an Adult
County Farm Bureau Building. Showmanship Contest for former 4-H
July 7
Conference Judging of Exhibits..... 8 a.m.- Noon The public is invited to view members who showed livestock. It
1-4 p.m. general projects on display, July 8 will be held on Saturday night of the
July 8 from 4 until 7 p.m. fair. Anyone can nominate a person
Conference Judging of Exhibits.... 8 a.m. - Noon There will be no awards to be in this contest and pay the $10
1-4 p.m.
program this year. However, entry fee to show sheep, swine or
Projects open for public viewing .......... 4-7 p.m. awards will be distributed to 4-H goats in three separate showmanship
members and State Fair delegates contests. Those 4-H alumni who
Livestock Show, Aug. 6-8 will be chosen. choose not to participate will be
Sandwich Fairgrounds
Livestock shows and required to pay a $20 opt-out fee.
Aug. 6 contests return to the Sandwich Nominations will be accepted at the
Sheep Show ...........................................5 p.m. fair. This contest is a fundraiser for
Fairgrounds, Aug. 6-8. Shows
Goat Show ..............................................7 p.m.
include: swine, sheep, goats, the 4-H Foundation.
Aug. 7 dairy, rabbits, poultry and beef. The 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction
Swine Show ............................................8 a.m.
Rabbit Show .........................................10 a.m.
Two new classes have been returns at the close of the fair with
Beef Show ............................................... Noon added to the 2021 county fair, members’ animals being sold by the
Bucket Calf Show ..................................... Noon announced Jennings. One is for head to buyers. Over 100 animals are
Poultry Show .....................................3:30 p.m. 4-H members with swine projects anticipated to be in the auction.
Dairy Show .............................................4 p.m.
and the other is for 4-H alumni. The DeKalb County 4-H program
New Adult Showmanship ..................5:30 p.m.
Sheep Lead & Sheep Costume Contest ....6 p.m. A “Born & Raised in DeKalb is open to youth 8 to 18 years. About
County” Class is a new addition 300 members are currently enrolled.
Aug. 8
Showmanship Sweepstakes ..................10 a.m. to the swine show opening up See the 4-H Fair schedule on this
Catered Lunch.......................................... Noon entries for another market class page or contact the DeKalb County
4-H Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction..........1 p.m. for purebred and crossbred pigs 4-H Office at 815-758-8194 for more
born in the county. This class is information. ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 11farm COuNTry
Carbon markets cause farm concern
Farm Bureau members share These developing, voluntary • Control. What about elements
a variety of concerns about markets would allow farmers to sell beyond individual farmer control
credits in exchange for performing like weather and land/tenant
developing, incentive-based
specific farming practices, such as relationships?
carbon markets. no-till and cover crops, as well as • Financial. How much will these
“We continue to meet with monitoring and verification of those practices cost? Who pays?
farmers all over Illinois, and one practices. Payments are outcome- • Technology. What technology
thing we have heard loud and clear based, not practice-based like most and training will be needed to
is that our members need additional NRCS programs now. participate in these markets?
information from sources they trust,” “Many people are commenting Meanwhile, new corporate carbon
said Lauren Lurkins, Illinois Farm that the payments they’re seeing now initiatives and programs seem to
Bureau’s director of environmental don’t make it worth the effort and develop each day, she said, with
policy. “We will continue our advocacy they’re worried that these markets little transparency or consistency.
in this space as the government are not as developed as they need to She offered the following
continues to work on the issue and be for people to actually enter them,” advice to farmers thinking about
share information as we learn it.” Lurkins said. participating in a corporate
In addition, Lurkins said generally initiative: 1) Don’t limit your
members’ concerns fall into six options. Avoid a program that would
categories. They include: minimize potential to participate
• Verification. How will the in future government or private
conservation/farming practices be programs. 2) Data collection and
verified, measured and monitored? stewardship. Consider what data
Will it be through on-farm visits, is being requested and if it is truly
satellite imagery, soil tests, models – germane to carbon or being gathered
or something else? Who will do the for another purpose. Consider what
work? Who will have access to that steps the company will take for data
information? stewardship. 3) Longevity of the
• Additionality. “We hear from commitment. These are long-term
early adopters who have identified commitments, so consider the track
DeKalb County Barn Tour these practices years ago and been record of the company involved. 4)
Mark your calendar for the implementing them,” Lurkins said. Follow the money. Find out where
DeKalb County Barn Tour on “They’re trying to access some of the money is coming from and how
Saturday, Aug. 14 and get ready to these programs that exist today.” it filters down to the farmer. 5) How
travel to the southeastern part of • Permanence. What timescale does is the carbon valued? Which models
the county. row-crop farming need to consider are being used? The true value of
This year’s six barns, which for purposes of carbon sequestration? carbon is currently unknown. ■
are open for tours, are located What about livestock farms? Source: Illinois Farm Bureau
in Somonauk and Sandwich
townships.
Tickets for the self-guided tour
are $25 per vehicle and available Waterman Tractor Show coming in July
at any of the tour locations on the The Waterman Lions Club will be holding their 21st annual Summerfest and
day of the event or in advance at Antique Tractor & Truck Show on Saturday, July 17 at Waterman Lions Park in
www.DAAHA.org. Waterman.
Watch for more information or The event provides a welcoming family oriented and homecoming
go to the Facebook page: “Barn atmosphere mixed with all kinds of activities and events.
Tour of DeKalb County IL.” The day starts with a Farmers Breakfast by the United Neighborhood Center
The Barn Tour is sponsored and ends around midnight after a spectacular fireworks show and beer garden
by the DeKalb Area Agricultural featuring bands.
Heritage Association and the J.F. For more information go to: http://www.watermantractorshow.com, or
Glidden Homestead. ■ contact Shawn Blobaum, 815-275-4874. ■
12 CONNECTIONS June 2021farm COuNTry
Climate change directives for uSDa
One of the toughest challenges • Simplify administration of CSP • Early adopters of climate-smart
facing agriculture has remained the and CRP. agricultural practices should be treated
same over generations – inclement • Consider compensation related fairly and recognized with benefits like
weather, variability and climate. to crop insurance to attract higher those who are adopting new practices.
Illinois farmers intend to stay participation levels. • Many Illinois farmers have
engaged in ongoing climate policy In addition, IFB members shared a concerns with the details of the
discussion as solutions are developed. variety of concerns about incentive- contractual agreements, including
To continue this engagement, based carbon markets. concepts regarding data collection and
Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) responded • When it comes to USDA stewardship, contract length, valuation
to USDA’s request for public support of these emerging markets, of carbon and limitations on future
comment on tackling the climate IFB members would like to see participation.
crisis. transparency and consistency “Not all carbon contracts treat farm
throughout the carbon market arena. practices the same, so the establishment
“Illinois Farm Bureau welcomes • USDA can support the industry by of standards and definitions would be
providing rules and a framework for helpful to ensure a level playing field
the opportunity to provide the process to operate and oversee the for both producers and those who
suggestions on how Illinois valuation of the carbon credits. purchase carbon credits to offset their
farmers can deliver long-term • Incentives must be tied to the carbon emissions,” Guebert said. ■
climate solutions.” land. Source: Illinois Farm Bureau
IFB President Richard Guebert Jr.
“Illinois farmers have demonstrated
a desire to engage in the climate
debate and want to make sure
practical solutions are created that
ultimately benefit Illinois farmers and
our environment,” Guebert said.
In 2019, IFB voting delegates
enacted new policy surrounding
global climate change. The new
policy set parameters regarding
how the membership engages in
conversations pertaining to climate
change.
IFB also solicited feedback from
its members to open-ended questions
posed by USDA, receiving about
1,000 individual responses from more
than 200 members. Those farmer underwood supports climate change act
responses and their suggestions
heavily influenced IFB’s comments to In a visit to Mark Tuttle’s farm, Rep. Lauren Underwood announced
USDA. her new bill and support for farmers implementing climate change
practices. These include agricultural practices that reduce greenhouse
IFB members suggested USDA: gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration. Incentives through the
• Streamline, provide transparency NRCS will help producers expand their climate stewardship practices.
and increase funding for established Underwood and Tuttle discussed farming practices last month during
programs like the Conservation the press conference held at Tuttle’s Somonauk farm. Tuttle is District 1
Stewardship Program (CSP) and Illinois Farm Bureau Director and a member of Rep. Underwood’s Ag
Conservation Reserve Program Advisory Committee. ■
(CRP).
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 13SCHOLarSHIPS
65th year of Senior Scholarships
High school seniors earn Farm Bureau scholarships
This year marks the 65th year of awarding
DeKalb County Farm Bureau Senior
Scholarships. The scholarship program was
started in 1956 with the first scholarships
given to five NIU students totaling $110
each.
This year, ten students attending a variety
of colleges will receive a $1,200 scholarship
which will assist with their college education
expenses.
The DeKalb County Farm Bureau
Zach Anderson Brooklyn Botterman Deloris Drendel
Indian Creek High School Genoa-Kingston High School Genoa-Kingston High School Foundation congratulates local high school
Kishwaukee College Iowa State University Iowa State University seniors who received this year’s Senior
Biology Animal Science Animal Ecology Scholarships. A committee of Farm Bureau
members made the
selection of scholarship
recipients based on
academics, leadership
and community
service.
Students receiving
the scholarship are
featured with a listing
of their high school,
college choice and
major. Farm Bureau
salutes these college-
Tyler Ekstrom Andrew Heinisch Lauren Hopkins Joey Newport
DeKalb High School
bound students of Farm
Sycamore High School Rockford Christian Rochelle High School
Iowa State University High School Iowa State University University of Illinois Bureau families. ■
Agribusiness University of Dayton, OH Animal Science Business
Biology
Thank You!
“Thank you so much for this
scholarship to help me with my
college education at the University of
Illinois. I have worked hard over the
past four years to earn good grades
and make money to put toward my
college career. This scholarship is
very helpful and I am very grateful
Karl Peterson Erin Templin Ava Splear for your generosity.”
Sycamore High School Sycamore High School Indian Creek High School
Arizona State University Drake University University of Illinois Ava Splear
Economics Pharmacy & Music Ag Communications
14 CONNECTIONS June 2021SCHOLarSHIPS
award recognitions
(Left) Farm Bureau Senior Scholarships
were presented to Ava Splear and Zach
Anderson at the Indian Creek High School
awards night by Foundation Director Kathy
Bock.
(Below) Dr. Mike Schelkopf, Farm
Bureau Foundation Director, presented
scholarships to seniors Brooklyn
Botterman and Deloris Drendel during
the Genoa-Kingston High School awards
program.
Logan Bend
Indian Creek High School
University of Illinois
Agribusiness Markets &
Management
Joe Barshinger ag Scholarship granted
Logan Bend was chosen to receive the Joe Barshinger Ag Scholarship
from the DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation. The Barshinger family
established the endowed scholarship last year with the Foundation in
memory of Joe and to honor his dedication to agriculture, history, leadership
and education.
The Barshingers created the scholarship to benefit an Indian Creek student
studying agriculture in college.
“I was very honored when I was presented with the Joe Barshinger
scholarship. I have always been passionate about agriculture and will use this
scholarship towards strengthening my knowledge in the agricultural field,”
said Logan. Logan Bend received the Joe Barshinger
“I would like to greatly thank the Barshinger family for this opportunity scholarship from Phyllis Barshinger.
and I will do my best to continue to represent the distinguished qualities of
Joe Barshinger,” he said. at the coffee shop with his fellow
Logan recently graduated from Indian Creek High School and was co- farmers.”
president of the FFA. He won the state FFA proficiency award in crop Logan plans to attend the
production. University of Illinois this fall and
“Joe would have been supportive of Logan’s FFA honors in crop major in agribusiness markets and
production and excited about the new improvements he will bring back management. His parents are Farm
to his family farm,” said Phyllis Barshinger. “Joe always enjoyed driving Bureau members Rick and Erin
around the countryside, looking at the fields, and then sharing information Bend of rural Shabbona. ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 15Welcome Back with Pork Chop Drive-Thru
We miss seeing you, Farm Bureau members! So
we’re having a pork chop/chicken drive-thru to
reconnect this summer.
This will be the first event planned for DeKalb
County Farm Bureau members since the Coronavirus
pandemic began a year ago and prevented large
gatherings.
The Welcome Back to Farm Bureau Drive-Thru is
scheduled for Monday, July 12, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at
the DeKalb County
Come see us July 12 Farm Bureau
for our Welcome Back parking lot.
Last year’s drive-
to Farm Bureau Drive-
thru was for Prime
Thru in the Farm Bureau Timers only to
parking lot. Advance meal replace the in-person
annual Prime Timers
purchases only. BBQ. This year
the drive-thru is for ALL Farm Bureau members,
including Prime Timers. Any one is welcome to
purchase tickets for the drive-thru and pick up a
delicious carryout meal.
The meal will be prepared by 5 B’s Catering and includes: a grilled pork chop Farm Bureau office or fill out the
and ¼ chicken, au gratin potatoes, cole slaw, applesauce and a roll. form on this page and return with
Cost of the meal is $13.50 for carryout distribution at 1350 West Prairie payment to the Farm Bureau or
Drive, Sycamore. register and pay online at: www.
Not only is this a welcome back event, but also a fundraiser for the Farm PlantALegacy.org/drivethru.
Bureau Foundation. A portion of the meal cost will go to the Ag in the Advance meal purchases only.
Classroom program which infuses agricultural literacy into local classrooms. Meals must be purchased by
To register for the Welcome Back to Farm Bureau Drive-Thru stop by the Wednesday, July 7. ■
Registration Form
Welcome Back to Farm Bureau Drive-Thru
DeKalb County Farm Bureau Parking Lot
1350 W. Prairie Dr., Sycamore
Monday, July 12, 2021 - 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Name _____________________________________________________________________________________
Complete Address ___________________________________________________________________________
Number of meals _____ Amount Enclosed ($13.50/meal) __________
Return with check payable to:
DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation, 1350 W. Prairie Dr., Sycamore, IL 60178 by Wednesday, July 7.
Fundraiser for the DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation
16 CONNECTIONS June 2021DeKalb County Farm Bureau
Foundation for Agriculture
Help us celebrate the
DeKalb County Farm
Bureau Foundation’s
35th year by
Giving A Gift of 35!
We need your support as we
continue to cultivate understanding
and awareness of agriculture by
connecting people to food and
farming.
With your help, we can boost our
You can... agricultural outreach and education.
Donate to one of our existing funds:
- Tom & Joan Fenstermaker Ag in the Classroom Fund
- DeKalb County Soil & Water Conservation District Fund
- Memorial Fund Give a Gift of 35
- Scholarships Funds (Ag Discipline, Joe Barshinger Ag,
Arden & Dorothy Baie, DeKalb Ag, Medical, Robert Morley Science,
Orville A. Olson Ag, Bob & Norma Wildenradt Ag, General,
$35
Jeff Hartmann Summer Ag Institute Scholarships) Provides Ag in the Classroom
supplies to grow young minds
- Unrestricted General Fund in one classroom.
Or... $350
Give annually or a one-time gift of $1,000+ Funds a farm field trip for 100
and be included on our donor wall in the Farm Bureau lobby. students, plus resource materials.
DeKalb County Farm Bureau $3500
Supports scholarships for two college
students studying agriculture. ■
To donate online go to: PlantALegacy.org/35years
or send contribution to: DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation,
1350 W. Prairie Dr., Sycamore, IL 60178.
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 17The pandemic prevented many Over the years, the contest has involved the design of posters, t-shirts,
programs, but it didn’t stop placemats, and as of 2020, the cover of this magazine.
What hasn’t changed in that time is that children are still employing their
DeKalb County Farm Bureau artistic talents to convey what they have learned about agriculture. In doing so,
from offering a design contest they are much more likely to remember what they have learned.
for elementary students. The contest is designed to encourage elementary teachers to incorporate
lessons about agriculture. While the theme for each grade correlates with the
This year marked the 31st year Ag in the Classroom program provided by Farm Bureau, many teachers amplify
of a contest that has challenged student learning with ag-focused books, videos, and class discussions.
children to illustrate their farm Once they’ve gained an understanding of the topic, students reinforce what
knowledge. they’ve learned by creating their magazine cover designs. ►
Grand Prize Winner
2nd Grade
1st Place
Jaxen Foster
Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Denise Myers
18 CONNECTIONS June 2021This year’s design themes
reflected our adapted Ag in the
Classroom program. Students
in 1st-2nd grade created designs
illustrating “Why Farms
Matter,” while 3rd-5th graders 1st Grade
focused on “The Science of 1st Place
Agriculture.” Avery Gletty
Twenty-five teachers from ten Indian Creek
schools submitted 305 student Elementary
designs for the contest. Entries Teacher,
Ms. Jackie Pelletier
were judged by the Ag Literacy
Committee. Members of the
committee reviewed the designs
by grade level, selecting first,
second, and third place winners
and up to five honorable
mention recipients per grade.
Of the five first place winners,
Farm Bureau staff then selected
the design most suitable for the
CONNECTIONS magazine
cover to be the grand prize
winner.
This year’s cover design
contest grand prize winner is
Jaxen Foster. His design is
shown on the front cover (and
on opposite page). Jaxen’s
design, themed “Why Farms
Matter,” was the first place
winner for second grade. Jaxen
is a student at Indian Creek
Elementary in Shabbona. His
3rd Grade
teacher is Mrs. Denise Myers. ►
1st Place
Max Beever
Indian Creek
Elementary
305 students entered the Teacher,
cover design contest for Mrs. Julie Headley
a chance to be featured in
CONNECTIONS magazine.
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 19continued
First place winners in each
of the other grades included:
First Grade – Avery Gletty
of Indian Creek Elementary;
Third Grade – Max Beever
of Indian Creek Elementary;
Fourth Grade – Annie Butler
of Dummer School; and Fifth
Grade – Ava Frances of Indian
Creek Middle School. (See
opposite page for a complete
list of winners.) The first place 4th Grade
designs are shown on these 1st Place
pages and on the back cover. Annie Butler
First through third place Dummer School
Teacher,
winners received gift cards. Mrs. Monica Winckler
Honorable mention recipients
earned special certificates,
and all entrants received
participation ribbons.
Copies of CONNECTIONS
magazine will be provided to
all the first place winners. ►
This year’s themes were:
“Why Farms Matter” for
1st - 2nd grades and
5th Grade
“The Science of Agriculture” 1st Place
for 3rd thru 5th grades. Ava Frances
Indian Creek
Middle School
Teacher,
Mrs. Martha Johnson
20 CONNECTIONS June 20211st -- 3rd place
1st Grade 3rd Grade 5th Grade
1st Place - Avery Gletty 1st Place - Max Beever 1st Place - Ava Frances
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Middle School
Teacher, Ms. Jackie Pelletier Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley Teacher, Mrs. Martha Johnson
2nd Place - Scarlett Tompkins 2nd Place - Connor Davis 2nd Place - Evangeline Pasetti
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Middle School
Teacher, Ms. Jackie Pelletier Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley Teacher, Mrs. Martha Johnson
3rd Place - Blair Byington 3rd Place - Chloe Clementi 3rd Place - Brianna León
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Middle School
Teacher, Ms. Jackie Pelletier Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley Teacher, Mrs. Martha Johnson
2nd Grade 4th Grade
1st Place - Jaxen Foster 1st Place - Annie Butler
Indian Creek Elementary Dummer School Thanks to all
nd
the students a
Teacher, Mrs. Denise Myers Teacher, Mrs. Monica Winckler
their teachers
2nd Place - Kayden Mikalauska 2nd Place - Aubrianna
ted!
Indian Creek Elementary Lewandowski
Teacher, Mrs. Susan Foster Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Ms. Joann Pardridge
who participa
3rd Place - Paisley Finney
Indian Creek Elementary 3rd Place - Ashley Leifheit
Teacher, Mrs. Lindsay Boehne Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Ms. Joann Pardridge
Honorable Mention
1st Grade 3rd Grade
Marjorie McAllister Grace Kupp
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley
Teacher, Ms. Melissa McNanna
Maci Miller Ireland Hovey
Indian Creek Elementary Hiawatha Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Geriann Failla
Teacher, Ms. Megan Smith
Landin Headon Ben White
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley
Teacher, Ms. Jackie Pelletier
Finn Davis
Indian Creek Elementary
2nd Grade Teacher, Mrs. Julie Headley
Milly Busse
Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Lindsay Boehne 4th Grade
Brantley Green Teagan Kramer
Prairie View Elementary Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Ms. Joann Pardridge
Teacher, Mrs. Kim Gudmunson
Jack Jungels Ag Literacy Committe members Marcy BIllington and Melissa Irick
Amelia Lowery judge cover design entries.
North School Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Ms. Joann Pardridge
Teacher, Ms. Jaymee Schrader
Harper Ludwig Ella Schrader
Indian Creek Elementary Indian Creek Elementary
Teacher, Mrs. Tara Faivre
Teacher, Mrs. Denise Myers
5th Grade
James Bend www.GrowYoungMinds.org
Indian Creek Middle School
Teacher, Ms. Brittany Pierce ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 21ffa
Best in State
Two local FFA members earn top state proficiency
awards for their Supervised Agricultural Experience
programs.
Logan Bend, Indian Creek FFA, and Max Griffey,
Sycamore FFA, attained first in state with their FFA
record books and a series of personal interviews.
Logan Bend garners top crop award
Logan Bend from rural Shabbona To attain the top award, Logan
was this year’s winner of the State kept a set of record books from his
FFA Proficiency Award in Grain freshman year of high school to the
Production. The award was based present. He competed and won at
on his Supervised Agricultural the section and district levels before
Experience (SAE) of corn and wheat advancing to state. At state he was
production on his family’s farm. interviewed amongst four other FFA
Logan, 18, works with his father, students and was named the state Logan Bend’s experience of raising corn
Rick, on their grain farm. He operates winner. and wheat on the family’s farm earned
equipment, maintains machinery “I was very excited when I found him the top state FFA award in Grain
Production.
and provides labor for their farm out that I was the state winner in
operation. grain production,” said Logan.
“Farming is a big part of my family’s for award interviews. Additionally
“Farming is a big part of my history, and I have been passionate his sister, Catie, guided him as she
about becoming as knowledgeable as previously had an SAE in grain
family’s history, and I have
possible so I can carry on the family production and his mother, Erin, also
been passionate about tradition.” provided support.
becoming as knowledgeable Logan gives credit to his father In FFA, Logan has achieved his
as possible so I can carry for mentoring him and to his FFA State Degree and was named District
on the family tradition.” advisor, Julie Vlosak, and the Indian Star Farmer last year. During his
Creek FFA Alumni for preparing him senior year he was Co-President
of the Indian Creek
FFA and throughout
high school has held
other offices and been
involved in many
events.
He graduated from
Indian Creek High
School in May and
will be attending
the University of
Illinois to major in
agribusiness markets
and management.
Logan aspires to hold
a career in agriculture
and continue on the
family farm. ►
22 CONNECTIONS June 2021ffa
max Griffey wins state in ag mech repair & maintenance
Max Griffey of Sycamore won
the State FFA Proficiency Award in
Ag Mech Repair and Maintenance.
He attained the top award based
on his work of maintaining and
repairing small engines in compact
construction equipment.
“This SAE has given me the
confidence to be able to work
within the ag industry as I
hope to one day work for a
larger company or myself in
the area of equipment repair.”
Max, 18, works at CSR Bobcat
in DeKalb. As an employee he does
oil changes, schedules maintenance,
parts replacement and equipment
repair on equipment along with rental two years as part of the Supervised (Above) Max Griffey records parts and
fleet and customers’ machines. He has Agricultural Experience (SAE) FFA equipment repairs and (below) works on
worked at CSR Bobcat for the last program. an engine of a skid steer at CSR Bobcat.
His experience with small engines won
To qualify for
him the top state FFA award in Ag Mech
proficiency awards, Repair and Maintenance.
Max kept a set of
records for the last
three years and “This SAE has given me the
interviewed at the confidence to be able to work within
section, district and the ag industry as I hope to one day
state competition. work for a larger company or myself
“When I found out I in the area of equipment repair,” he
won state, I was very said.
excited and proud of In the meantime Max is keeping
my accomplishments,” his FFA record book up to date to
said Max. qualify for the American FFA Degree
Max lives in the and national competition with his
town of Sycamore and SAE. He credits his ag teachers Mrs.
has always wanted Poynter and Mr. Thurwanger and
to be involved in the parents Kate and Jason Griffey for
ag industry. In high giving him the extra push to get the
school he took ag- record books done!
related classes like ag In FFA, Max was the FFA Senior
mechanics and then Plot Manager overseeing their
took classes through field plot during his senior year.
Bobcat University to He graduated from Sycamore High
expand his knowledge School in May and plans to attend
and experience with Kishwaukee College in the fall in
equipment. their agribusiness program. ■
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 23ffa
ffa members earn State Degree awards
Thirteen receive State FFA Degrees at convention The State Degree winners are:
Genoa-Kingston – Deloris Drendel and Ashley Zuke
DeKalb County Farm Bureau congratulates this year’s
Hinckley-Big Rock – Kendall Hawbaker and Madeline
State FFA Degree recipients from DeKalb County.
Noble
Thirteen young people were recognized with the State
Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich – Jessica Carlson and
Degree at the Illinois FFA Convention held recently.
Brandon Larson
The State FFA Degree is awarded to FFA members who
Sycamore –Jared Clausen, Tyler Ekstrom, Morgan
have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to
Fidler, Jaedyn Slutz, Sarah Ward, Myranda Wilbur and
the organization and made significant accomplishments in
Heidi Wood.
their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAEs).
Also this year the
Somonauk-Leland-
Sandwich FFA Chapter
won state in the Food
CDE competition.
Genoa-Kingston FFA
and Sycamore FFA are
both national finalists
for the National
Chapter Award
Program, based on the
chapter’s program of
activities for the year. ■
Genoa-Kingston – Deloris Drendel and Ashley Zuke Hinckley-Big Rock – Kendall Hawbaker and
Madeline Noble
Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich – Jessica Carlson and
Sycamore – Jared Clausen Tyler Ekstrom Morgan Fidler Brandon Larson
Sycamore – Jaedyn Slutz Sarah Ward Myranda Wilbur Heidi Wood
24 CONNECTIONS June 2021A glimpse of
local history
William, the first
DeKalb County is known for its
entrepreneurial and forward thinking
people. Many “firsts’” have come from
DeKalb County.
One of the most important one was (Above) The Eckhardt home on Roosevelt
the establishment of a county farm Street in DeKalb had the silos in the
adviser. A product of the DeKalb backyard. A historical marker is located
County Soil Improvement Association there today. (Right) William Eckhardt was
(forerunner to DeKalb County Farm the first farm adviser in DeKalb County.
Bureau) which was the first association
of this kind to be incorporated in the
state of Illinois; the position of farm adviser was the first in the country.
William G. Eckhardt, a soil scientist at the University of Illinois and a After suffering an injury in April of
specialist in the ailments of agriculture, was the chosen one. He was given a 1920, which he never fully recovered
three-year contract on June 1, 1912, and the use of an automobile to devote his from, Eckhardt resigned his position
entire time to the advancement of agriculture in DeKalb County. as farm adviser. Shortly after that he
To finance Eckhardt’s position, a subscription system was formed to became director of grain marketing for
support the position of farm adviser by the DeKalb County Soil Improvement the newly formed Illinois Agricultural
Association. The Association Association, the state organization
recognized the need for long-term of Farm Bureaus. At the same time
success that was dependent on he was granted a patent for a new
support from the farmers in the technique of forced-air drying of seed
county. corn.
The DeKalb County Board of Eckhardt founded the Corn Belt
Supervisors also supported this effort Seed Company in 1925 and his
with the opportunity for Eckhardt to business was run out of his home
manage the county’s “Poor Farm” and address on West Roosevelt Street in
use that land as a demonstration plot. DeKalb. At the back of the property
As Eckhardt traveled to farms in were silos made of four interlocking
DeKalb County, he spoke of the cement staves, sealed air-tight and
importance of rotating crops in their waterproof. All processing was done
fields and to consider other crops at this location consisting of drying,
such as alfalfa, soybeans, and clover shelling, grading and sorting.
to maintain soil fertility. He also While the basic principles of his
encouraged farmers to use limestone patented dryer are still being used
to improve the sour soil conditions in today, Eckhardt’s seed company didn’t
DeKalb County. survive competing with other seed
By the middle of 1916, Eckhardt companies of the day. The Corn Belt
had become a leading voice among Seed Company dissolved in 1952. ■
the nation-wide farm advisers and a Information provided by Sue Breese
William Eckhardt patented a new technique greatly sought-after expert.
of drying corn. Those principles are still
used today.
June 2021 CONNECTIONS 25You can also read
