Illinois Wheat Farmers Approve Program to Boost Market Growth

After a vote of 207 in favor and 69 against, Illinois wheat producers have officially approved a measure to bring in a wheat check-off program.

Historic Vote Paves Way for Wheat Check-Off in Illinois

According to an Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) press release, the votes have been certified to set a voluntary assessment of 1.5 cents per bushel to support the wheat sector, and it will go into effect on January 1, 2026.

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Established under the Illinois Wheat Development Act, this initiative was designed to promote new market opportunities, provide funds for research, and support Wheat growers in Illinois so they can keep up with global demands.

These initiatives will strengthen the role it already has as a leader in national agriculture.

Agriculture is our state’s #1 industry, and we are proud to be the #11 producer of wheat in the nation, producing 60.2 million bushels in 2024. The wheat check-off will foster continued growth, positioning Illinois as a global leader in wheat production. -IDOA Director Jerry Costello

Illinois Wheat Development Board Elections Coming

A vote is coming up to determine the board that will oversee the wheat check-off program's direction, and help guide where investments will be made that benefit all wheat producers in Illinois.

The Illinois Wheat Checkoff Committee, working with the IDOA, will begin creating the procedures for the fall 2025 election of members to the Illinois Wheat Development Board.

According to AgriNews, there were 700,000 harvested acres last year (2024) in Illinois, with Washington County being the top producer, harvesting 6.579 million bushels.