Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy

One cover crop conversation. Big benefits for soil health, water quality, and profitability. Read more in the latest NLRS blog!

Illinois EPA, Illinois Department of Agriculture, University of Illinois Extension

Cover crop conversations: Profitability, soil health, and yield When evaluating cover crops, many conversations begin with one question: Are they profitable?

Interested in becoming an Illinois Certified Crop Advisor (ICCA) or brushing up on agronomy basics? Join the ICCA Study Session on July 15 for a helpful crash course. This is a great opportunity for exam prep and better nutrient management.

📝 ICCA Exam registration open July 1–31 (Aug 5–19 testing window). Find more at https://illinoiscca.org/
👉 RSVP for the July 15 ICCA Study Session: https://form.123formbuilder.com/6796374/cca-study-session-registration-form

🌿 Partnership in Action 🌿

The SIU College of Agriculture Field Day is more than just a day in the field—it’s a chance to see how organizations across Illinois are working together to support the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy.

On July 14, join SIU, NREC, Illinois Soybean Association, and Illinois Farm Bureau as they:
💧 Highlight nutrient management research
💧 Strengthen partnerships
💧 Work toward better water quality for Illinois

SIU University Farms (Carbondale) | 9 AM – 1:30 PM
Lunch provided | Rain or shine | RSVP: https://form.123formbuilder.com/6953951/7-14-2026-nutrient-research-field-day-carbondale

NOAA is forecasting this summer’s Gulf “dead zone” –an area of low to no oxygen that can kill fish and other marine life– to be approximately 7,027 square miles, larger than the long-term average measured size of 5,223 square miles. Learn more: https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/jun26/summer-dead-zone.html

The role of the soil microbiome in reducing nutrient loss In episode 81 of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Podcast, Dr.

Healthy soils matter. Practices that reduce nutrient loss can also help limit dust storms. See what Illinois farmers need to know.

With dust storms and advisories popping up across the Midwest, it is important to stay aware, have a travel plan, and be informed on the increased, often-hazardous events.

A combined specialty team of Extension experts dug deeper into Illinois dust storms. By breaking down the various factors at play and examining areas, weather, and farming practices, they hope the information will raise awareness and help farmers adapt to changing conditions.

🔗 Download Extreme Weather: What Illinois Farmers Need to Know, Dust Storms at https://go.illinois.edu/DustStorms

🔗 Dig Deeper: Dust storms in Illinois: Examining roles of weather and farming practices at https://extension.illinois.edu/news-releases/dust-storms-illinois-examining-roles-weather-and-farming-practices

Stormwater impacts our neighborhoods, waterways, and water quality — and managing it well takes collaboration. 💧

Join the conversation during , happening May 3–9, 2026. Hosted by Current, this weeklong series features tours, panels, workshops, and community events focused on water stewardship, innovation, resilience, and education.

From green infrastructure and water quality to emerging challenges like climate resilience and growing water demand, Chicago Water Week highlights the importance of protecting and investing in our shared water resources.

Explore the events and learn more:

Chicago Water Week Join us May 3-9, 2026 for a variety of water-focused events hosted by Current and our partners to celebrate all things water.