Effingham County Farm Bureau

09/20/2026

09/18/2026

Ag in the Classroom at Central Grade School

09/16/2026

How long have you been a member? Join in the fun to be eligible to win a prize!

09/15/2026

Applications Now Available for 2027 Agriculture Leaders of Tomorrow

Are you, or someone you know, ready to take the next step in their leadership development? The Illinois Farm Bureau has a program to help with that. The Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow (ALOT) provides participants with the tools they need to reach their full potential and emerge as leaders in agriculture. Whether you serve on your county Farm Bureau board, county Farm Bureau committee, or are a leader in agribusiness or your local community, you’ll benefit from ALOT just as the over 1,200 previous graduates have.

Classroom studies cover leadership, communication & professional skills, political process, agricultural economics, and global issues, and are taught by experts in a variety of fields. Classes will be conducted over a seven-week period in a different region of the state each year, so there's sure to be one near you.



In 2027, there will be seven weekly sessions held across Southern Illinois, Springfield, and Bloomington, Illinois. The seven-week program includes four overnight sessions, two single-day sessions, and one virtual session.

The ALOT program is limited to 25 participants, who are chosen following interviews conducted on November 17th via Zoom by the ALOT advisory committee. There is an $800 tuition fee, which includes meals, lodging, and instructional materials.

Applications are available online at https://explore.ilfb.org/alot and are due by November 2nd. For more information about the program visit https://explore.ilfb.org/alot or contact Effingham County Farm Bureau at 217-342-2103 or the IFB Training and Development Department at 309-557-2038.

Develop your leadership skills through Illinois Farm Bureau's Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow (ALOT) program for future leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.

09/15/2026

The committee will meet tomorrow for a vote. Please take one minute to encourage Senator Durbin to advance the Farm Bill out of committee.

The U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to reconvene this week for another opportunity to advance the Farm Bill out of committee, including year-round E15. With current Farm Bill provisions set to expire Sept. 30, the time to act is NOW.

Complete your ACTION REQUEST today and URGE Senator Durbin to VOTE YES on the Farm Bill markup!

LINK in comments below👇‼️

09/15/2026

🚒 ATTENTION FIRE DEPARTMENTS!

💧NEED WATER FOR FIRE SUPPRESSION? WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

During this dry harvest season, South Central FS agronomy locations have large-capacity water available to assist fire departments with emergency firefighting needs.

🚨 If your department needs water for an active emergency, call your local South Central FS agronomy location immediately.

We’re proud to support our first responders and local communities!

09/14/2026

In 1925, a group of Illinois farmers came together to provide fire and lightning insurance, helping to ensure their farms and crops would be protected. Over the next century, COUNTRY Financial® grew to offer a diverse range of personal and business insurance products, as well as retirement and investment services.

Today, a Farm Certified Representative can help you with the right protection for your farm operation, along with your personal insurance needs, including auto, home and life insurance.

As the leading farm insurer in Illinois, COUNTRY Financial has more than 100 years' experience protecting Effingham County Farm Bureau members just like you. Find customized farm, home and car insurance to fit your needs from a Farm Certified Representative: https://www.countryfinancial.com/en/insurance/farm/farm-quote-request.html

09/13/2026

September is Su***de Prevention Awareness Month. This is an important time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage conversations about mental health and su***de prevention. Together, we can help connect individuals, families, and friends with the resources and support they need. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available.

09/10/2026

Congratulations to Hank and welcome to Max!

For years, Hank Niebrugge has been a trusted name in insurance and a familiar face in the community. As he begins to take a well-earned step back, he's passing the leadership of the business to Max Niebrugge.

Hank will continue to be involved during the transition, helping ensure clients receive the same care and commitment they've come to expect. We're grateful for Hank's years of service and excited to see Max lead the agency into the future.

Getting to know Max: He graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Agricultural Consumer Economics, focusing on Markets and Management, along with a minor in Business. He enjoys hunting, fishing, basketball, golf, pickleball, fastpitch softball, spending time with family, sharing a good joke, and exploring the outdoors.

"I chose this career because I enjoy building relationships with people and helping others feel protected and secure. I want to be someone my clients know they can count on, whether they have a question about their insurance, are looking at protecting their family, or simply want to make sure they're properly covered.

I also value being involved in the community and giving back whenever I can. Being a COUNTRY Financial representative gives me the opportunity to build relationships, serve others, and be involved in the community I'm proud to call home. I'm looking forward to getting to know more of you and continuing to build relationships throughout the community."

Please join us in thanking Hank for his years of dedication and welcoming Max into this new leadership role. We're excited for the future and confident the agency's tradition of service will continue for years to come! 🎉

09/10/2026

Ag in the Classroom makes a visit to Teutopolis Grade School.