RFD Today September 24, 2026

USDA Rural Development State Director Jesus Ortega details several projects and programs. Learning about the latest in grain monitoring and grain management technology from Adam Weiss, CEO at OPI.  Jennifer Randolph-Bollinger, Natural Resources Coordinator for Giant City State Park in Jackson County highlights the park's 100th anniversary coming up in 2027.  

Illinois Farm Bureau President Philip Nelson talks a myriad of issues in his regular visit, including diesel and fertilizer prices.  Scott Loyd, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Oral History Manager, highlights the People of Faith collection.   Scott Heiberger, Communications Manager at National Farm Medicine Center, promotes National Farm Safety and Health Month.  

Illinois Corn Marketing Board update from VP Terry Smith of Adams County. "Tomorrow's Leaders Today" segment features University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Collegiate Farm Bureau Chapter and members Alexis Nall, Kayley Gerlach, Aubrey Wall and Avery Pope.Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford reviews September weather data and talks October and November outlooks.  

Talking college town affordability with Western Illinois University Vice President of Student Success Justin Schuch.Illinois Farm Bureau Associate Director of Food Systems Development recaps the volume at the Illinois Specialty Growers Association Farm Stand during the 2026 Illinois State Fair.  Joe Camp at CommStock Investments previews a new market week.  

Illinois Farm Bureau Executive Director of Governmental Affairs and Commodities Kevin Semlow talks Senate Ag Committee Farm Bill vote in his "Seven with Kevin" segment. Monthly visit with American Farmland Trust.IHSA Friday Friday Friday features Wilmington High School head football coach Jeff Reents plus Pigskin Pickins' with Jim, Rita & DeLoss.  

University of Illinois Professor of Soil Science Andrew Margenot discusses his work with the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council.  Morgan Lewis with Western Community Public Transportation discusses rural transit.  

An update on the spotted lanternfly from State Ag Pest Survey Coordinator Kelly Estes. Wrapping up the 2026 Illinois county fair season with Jeff Rabenort from the Okawville Wheat Festival.Monthly visit with Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs.  

An update on the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation Class of 2027.  Kurt Maertens with BASF discusses crop protection products during the Farm Progress Show earlier this month. DTN Weather Risk Communicator Teresa Wells says northern Illinois is forecast to receive heavy rain this week while southern Illinois will experience heat.   

Monthly update from Don Schaefer with Mid-West Truckers Association.  Bob Eschbach with the Ottawa Center for the Arts details historic preservation efforts at two former church buildings.  Highlighting Illinois Farm Bureau Actively Engaged Student of the Month for September, Adalyn Solomonson from El Paso Gridley High School. Joe Camp at CommStock Investments previews a new market week. 

State and federal updates with Illinois Farm Bureau Executive Director of Governmental Affairs & Commodities Kevin Semlow in his "Seven with Kevin" segment.  Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello talks harvest season and upcoming grain tours.IHSA Friday Friday Friday features El Paso Gridley head football coach Tanner Benedict plus Pigskin Pickins' with Jim, Rita and DeLoss.