Illinois NLRS Program and Project Narratives

  • 4R Field Day: 2021-22 Update

    New in 2021–22, the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association partnered with the 4R Field Day Alliance, Precision Planting, producer Eric Miller, the Nutrient Research & Education Council, and University of Illinois researchers to host a public field day to highlight practices that reduce nutrient loss conservation practices and nutrient management systems.

  • 4R Field Day: 2023-24 Update

    • New in 2021–22, the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association partnered with the 4R Field Day Alliance, Precision Planting, producer Eric Miller, the Nutrient Research & Education Council, and University of Illinois researchers to host a public field day to highlight practices that reduce nutrient loss conservation practices and nutrient management systems.


  • Calumet Stormwater Collaborative: 2015-16 Update

    Since 2014, the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative has convened stakeholders to solve flooding and water quality problems in the Little Calumet River and Cal-Sag Channel watersheds. Representatives from more than 40 organizations participate in the collaborative. During monthly meetings, group members exchange information on water quality and flooding needs as well as worthwhile projects and initiatives. The collaborative has developed free, online green infrastructure design templates for communities, a new data-mapping tool for the region, a repository of stormwater management resources, and a logic model for green infrastructure training and maintenance. It developed four watershed plans: the Little Calumet River, Cal-Sag Channel, Des Plaines River in Cook County, and Poplar Creek. These plans were approved by Illinois EPA and recommend best management practices, such as green infrastructure, to reduce nutrient pollution from stormwater.

    As of 2023, the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative has completed the first iteration of the green infrastructure baseline inventory, led by the Metropolitan Planning Council, and the urban flooding baseline, led by the Center for Neighborhood Technology. 

    More information on the green infrastructure baseline can be found at www.metroplanning.org/work/project/23/ subpage/7
    The urban flooding baseline tool can be found at ufb.cnt.org. 

  • Calumet Stormwater Collaborative: 2017-18 Update

    Since 2014, the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative has convened stakeholders to solve flooding and water quality problems in the Little Calumet River and Cal-Sag Channel watersheds. Representatives from more than 40 organizations participate in the collaborative. During monthly meetings, group members exchange information on water quality and flooding needs as well as worthwhile projects and initiatives. The collaborative has developed free, online green infrastructure design templates for communities, a new data-mapping tool for the region, a repository of stormwater management resources, and a logic model for green infrastructure training and maintenance. It developed four watershed plans: the Little Calumet River, Cal-Sag Channel, Des Plaines River in Cook County, and Poplar Creek. These plans were approved by Illinois EPA and recommend best management practices, such as green infrastructure, to reduce nutrient pollution from stormwater.

    As of 2023, the Calument Stormwater Collaborative has completed the first iteration of the green infrastructure baseline inventory, led by the Metropolitan Planning Council, and the urban flooding baseline, led by the Center for Neighborhood Technology. 

    More information on the green infrastructure baseline can be found at www.metroplanning.org/work/project/23/ subpage/7
    The urban flooding baseline tool can be found at ufb.cnt.org. 

  • Calumet Stormwater Collaborative: 2019-20 Update

    Since 2014, the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative has convened stakeholders to solve flooding and water quality problems in the Little Calumet River and Cal-Sag Channel watersheds. Representatives from more than 40 organizations participate in the collaborative. During monthly meetings, group members exchange information on water quality and flooding needs as well as worthwhile projects and initiatives. The collaborative has developed free, online green infrastructure design templates for communities, a new data-mapping tool for the region, a repository of stormwater management resources, and a logic model for green infrastructure training and maintenance. It developed four watershed plans: the Little Calumet River, Cal-Sag Channel, Des Plaines River in Cook County, and Poplar Creek. These plans were approved by Illinois EPA and recommend best management practices, such as green infrastructure, to reduce nutrient pollution from stormwater.

    As of 2023, the Calument Stormwater Collaborative has completed the first iteration of the green infrastructure baseline inventory, led by the Metropolitan Planning Council, and the urban flooding baseline, led by the Center for Neighborhood Technology. 

    More information on the green infrastructure baseline can be found at www.metroplanning.org/work/project/23/ subpage/7
    The urban flooding baseline tool can be found at ufb.cnt.org. 

  • Calumet Stormwater Collaborative: 2021-22 Update

    Since 2014, the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative has convened stakeholders to solve flooding and water quality problems in the Little Calumet River and Cal-Sag Channel watersheds. Representatives from more than 40 organizations participate in the collaborative. During monthly meetings, group members exchange information on water quality and flooding needs as well as worthwhile projects and initiatives. The collaborative has developed free, online green infrastructure design templates for communities, a new data-mapping tool for the region, a repository of stormwater management resources, and a logic model for green infrastructure training and maintenance. It developed four watershed plans: the Little Calumet River, Cal-Sag Channel, Des Plaines River in Cook County, and Poplar Creek. These plans were approved by Illinois EPA and recommend best management practices, such as green infrastructure, to reduce nutrient pollution from stormwater.

    As of 2023, the Calument Stormwater Collaborative has completed the first iteration of the green infrastructure baseline inventory, led by the Metropolitan Planning Council, and the urban flooding baseline, led by the Center for Neighborhood Technology. 

    More information on the green infrastructure baseline can be found at www.metroplanning.org/work/project/23/ subpage/7
    The urban flooding baseline tool can be found at ufb.cnt.org. 

  • Carbon and Ecosystem Market Resources and Programs: 2021-22 Update

    New in 2022, the Carbon and Data Guidebook was made available at www.ilsoyadvisor.com. It provides Illinois producers with carbon and ecosystem markets and program enrollment information. The guidebook features CarbonSense information and tips for transitioning to soil health-focused management systems. For more information see www.ilsoyadvisor.com/carbon-data-guidebook.

  • Conservation@Home: 2019-20 Update

    Developed by The Conservation Foundation, Conservation@Home is an educational program that recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program’s guidance and education, residents can shape their private and community landscapes in an environmentally-minded way. Conservation@Home is a northeastern Illinois regional program. A map of participants is available at tcfwatersheds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ index.html. In Cook County, this program is a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and The Forest Preserves of Cook County. For more information, see extension.illinois.edu/cook/ConservationHome and theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home

  • Conservation@Home: 2021-22 Update

    Developed by The Conservation Foundation, Conservation@Home is an educational program that recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program’s guidance and education, residents can shape their private and community landscapes in an environmentally-minded way. Conservation@Home is a northeastern Illinois regional program. A map of participants is available at tcfwatersheds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ index.html. In Cook County, this program is a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and The Forest Preserves of Cook County. For more information, see extension.illinois.edu/cook/ConservationHome and theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home.

  • Conservation@Home: 2023-24 Update

    Developed by The Conservation Foundation, Conservation@Home is an educational program that recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program’s guidance and education, residents can shape their private and community landscapes in an environmentally-minded way. Conservation@Home is a northeastern Illinois regional program. A map of participants is available at tcfwatersheds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ index.html. In Cook County, this program is a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and The Forest Preserves of Cook County. For more information, see extension.illinois.edu/cook/ConservationHome and theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home

  • DuPage County Water Quality Improvement Program: 2019-20 Update

    DuPage County Stormwater Management recognizes the financial burden a property owner may face when undertaking a project that improves regional water quality. The county’s Water Quality Improvement Program, WQIP, offers financial assistance to projects providing a regional water quality benefit to local waterways. The grant funds up to 25% of eligible construction costs for water quality improvement projects. DuPage County initiated the grant program in 2000 and has awarded nearly $6.3 million across 108 projects. DuPage County government agencies, organizations, and individuals are eligible to receive funds under the WQIP. The WQIP story map provides information on the grant and application process and gives examples of eligible projects, such as rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavers, and streambank stabilization. The story map also includes animated infographics, photos, project descriptions, and an interactive map of previously awarded projects.

    For more information, see dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/stormwater_management/grants/water_quality_ improvement_program.php.

  • DuPage County Water Quality Improvement Program: 2021-22 Update

    DuPage County Stormwater Management recognizes the financial burden a property owner may face when undertaking a project that improves regional water quality. The county’s Water Quality Improvement Program, WQIP, offers financial assistance to projects providing a regional water quality benefit to local waterways. The grant funds up to 25% of eligible construction costs for water quality improvement projects. DuPage County initiated the grant program in 2000 and has awarded nearly $6.3 million across 108 projects. DuPage County government agencies, organizations, and individuals are eligible to receive funds under the WQIP. The WQIP story map provides information on the grant and application process and gives examples of eligible projects, such as rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavers, and streambank stabilization. The story map also includes animated infographics, photos, project descriptions, and an interactive map of previously awarded projects.

    For more information, see dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/stormwater_management/grants/water_quality_ improvement_program.php.

  • DuPage County Water Quality Improvement Program: 2023-24 Update

    DuPage County Stormwater Management recognizes the financial burden a property owner may face when undertaking a project that improves regional water quality. The county’s Water Quality Improvement Program, WQIP, offers financial assistance to projects providing a regional water quality benefit to local waterways. The grant funds up to 25% of eligible construction costs for water quality improvement projects. DuPage County initiated the grant program in 2000 and has awarded nearly $6.3 million across 108 projects. DuPage County government agencies, organizations, and individuals are eligible to receive funds under the WQIP. The WQIP story map provides information on the grant and application process and gives examples of eligible projects, such as rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavers, and streambank stabilization. The story map also includes animated infographics, photos, project descriptions, and an interactive map of previously awarded projects.

    For more information, see dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/stormwater_management/grants/water_quality_ improvement_program.php.

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Saturated Buffers

    The Saturated Buffer Partnership is a five-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The purpose of this partnership is to support saturated buffer installation, water quality monitoring of the practice, and outreach events. For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices

  • Edge‑of‑Field Partnership for Saturated Buffers: 2017-18 Update

    The Saturated Buffer Partnership is a five-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The purpose of this partnership is to support saturated buffer installation, water quality monitoring of the practice, and outreach events. For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Saturated Buffers: 2019-20 Update

    The Saturated Buffer Partnership is a five-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The purpose of this partnership is to support saturated buffer installation, water quality monitoring of the practice, and outreach events. For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Saturated Buffers: 2021-22 Update

    The Saturated Buffer Partnership is a five-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The purpose of this partnership is to support saturated buffer installation, water quality monitoring of the practice, and outreach events. For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices.

  • Edge‑of‑Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors: 2017-18 - Update

    The Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors is a multi-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., University of Illinois, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The goal of this partnership is to install a woodchip bioreactor each year and to support research into the impact of woodchip bioreactors on water quality at each site for the five-year collaboration period, and beyond. In previous years, the partnership has installed woodchip bioreactors in Bureau and Henry counties. 

    In 2021, the partners finalized the installation of the fourth woodchip bioreactor in McDonough County. Due to extended project delays throughout 2021, the partners pushed back their in-person field day to July 2022. In November 2022, the partners installed the fifth woodchip bioreactor in Sangamon County, with plans to host a field day in summer 2023.

    For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices.  

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors: 2019-20 Update

    The Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors is a multi-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., University of Illinois, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The goal of this partnership is to install a woodchip bioreactor each year and to support research into the impact of woodchip bioreactors on water quality at each site for the five-year collaboration period, and beyond. In previous years, the partnership has installed woodchip bioreactors in Bureau and Henry counties. 

    In 2021, the partners finalized the installation of the fourth woodchip bioreactor in McDonough County. Due to extended project delays throughout 2021, the partners pushed back their in-person field day to July 2022. In November 2022, the partners installed the fifth woodchip bioreactor in Sangamon County, with plans to host a field day in summer 2023.

    For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices.  

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors: 2021-22 Update

    The Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors is a multi-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., University of Illinois, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The goal of this partnership is to install a woodchip bioreactor each year and to support research into the impact of woodchip bioreactors on water quality at each site for the five-year collaboration period, and beyond. In previous years, the partnership has installed woodchip bioreactors in Bureau and Henry counties. 

    In 2021, the partners finalized the installation of the fourth woodchip bioreactor in McDonough County. Due to extended project delays throughout 2021, the partners pushed back their in-person field day to July 2022. In November 2022, the partners installed the fifth woodchip bioreactor in Sangamon County, with plans to host a field day in summer 2023.

    For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices.  

  • Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors: 2023-24 Update

    The Edge-of-Field Partnership for Woodchip Bioreactors is a multi-year collaboration between Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association Inc., University of Illinois, and Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service. The goal of this partnership is to install a woodchip bioreactor each year and to support research into the impact of woodchip bioreactors on water quality at each site for the five-year collaboration period, and beyond. In previous years, the partnership has installed woodchip bioreactors in Bureau and Henry counties. 

    In 2021, the partners finalized the installation of the fourth woodchip bioreactor in McDonough County. Due to extended project delays throughout 2021, the partners pushed back their in-person field day to July 2022. In November 2022, the partners installed the fifth woodchip bioreactor in Sangamon County, with plans to host a field day in summer 2023.

    For more information, see www.illica.net/projects or www.ilfb.org/nlrspractices.  

  • Farm Gate: 2021-22 Update

    Illinois’ livestock industry is dedicated to addressing environmental protection through regulatory programs, industry-led educational initiatives, and publicly funded programs. Illinois Farm Bureau continues to distribute resources that provide members with a first step toward understanding whether and how environmental rules and regulations impact their operations. For more information, see ilfb.org/FarmGate.

  • Fox River Study Group: 2015-16 Update

    For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

  • Fox River Study Group: 2017-18 Update

    For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

  • Fox River Study Group: 2019-20 Update

    For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

  • Fox River Study Group: 2021-22 Update

    For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

  • Fox River Study Group: 2023-24 Update

    For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

  • IFB NLRS Priority Watershed Work: 2019-20 Update

    Watershed planning efforts in Illinois EPA priority watersheds continued to be a significant area of focus for Illinois Farm Bureau and County Farm Bureaus across the state. IFB’s work in this area often included providing technical, financial, and outreach support to these efforts. By working closely with CFBs and their local communities, IFB is also able to help ensure farmer and landowner feedback is brought to watershed planning initiatives. 

  • Illinois Buffer Partnership: 2017-18 Update

    The Illinois Buffer Partnership, led by Trees Forever, supports farmers, landowners, and communities in installing and maintaining conservation buffers that reduce erosion, improve water and soil quality, and enhance wildlife habitat. Participants may receive funding, technical assistance, and outreach opportunities. The program has supported dozens of projects statewide, promoting conservation practices, native plant use, and environmental education. 

  • Illinois Buffer Partnership: 2021-22 Update

    The Illinois Buffer Partnership promotes and provides cost-share funding to the voluntary conservation efforts of Illinois farmers and landowners with the goal of improving water, air, and soil quality. Buffer projects help to reduce erosion, sequester carbon, provide wildlife and pollinator habitat, and can also create additional income for landowners. This program is a collaborative partnership of Trees Forever, GROWMARK, state and federal government agencies, Trees Forever members, and participating landowners. For more information, see treesforever.org/illinois_buffer_partnership.

  • Illinois Farm Bureau NLRS Priority Watershed Work: 2021-22 Update

    Watershed planning efforts in Illinois EPA priority watersheds continued to be a significant area of focus for Illinois Farm Bureau and County Farm Bureaus across the state. IFB’s work in this area often included providing technical, financial, and outreach support to these efforts. By working closely with CFBs and their local communities, IFB is also able to help ensure farmer and landowner feedback is brought to watershed planning initiatives.

  • Illinois Groundwork: 2021-22 Update

    From 2021-23, University of Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant developed a website, Illinois Groundwork, based on multidisciplinary green infrastructure research and an extension process piloted in the Chicago Calumet region. By improving access to data, research, and other resources, Illinois Groundwork increases the effective use of green infrastructure to address stormwater management challenges. For more information, see IllinoisGroundwork.org.

  • Illinois Groundwork: 2023-24 Update

    From 2021-23, University of Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant developed a website, Illinois Groundwork, based on multidisciplinary green infrastructure research and an extension process piloted in the Chicago Calumet region. By improving access to data, research, and other resources, Illinois Groundwork increases the effective use of green infrastructure to address stormwater management challenges. For more information, see IllinoisGroundwork.org

  • Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council: 2015-16 Update

    Since 2012, the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council has been Illinois agriculture’s primary investment into nutrient research. The Council is created by state statute and works closely with a variety of stakeholders across Illinois. It supports the Illinois NLRS through targeted research requests for proposals and investments as well as education and outreach. Focus areas include: applying and understanding the 4Rs, capturing excess nutrients in the field, mitigating loss of nutrients to water supplies, and studying other nutrient management issues. For more information see www.illinoisnrec.org

  • Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council: 2017-18 Update

    Since 2012, the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council has been Illinois agriculture’s primary investment into nutrient research. The Council is created by state statute and works closely with a variety of stakeholders across Illinois. It supports the Illinois NLRS through targeted research requests for proposals and investments as well as education and outreach. Focus areas include: applying and understanding the 4Rs, capturing excess nutrients in the field, mitigating loss of nutrients to water supplies, and studying other nutrient management issues. For more information see www.illinoisnrec.org

  • Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council: 2021-22 Update

    Since 2012, the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council has been Illinois agriculture’s primary investment into nutrient research. The Council is created by state statute and works closely with a variety of stakeholders across Illinois. It supports the Illinois NLRS through targeted research requests for proposals and investments as well as education and outreach. Focus areas include: applying and understanding the 4Rs, capturing excess nutrients in the field, mitigating loss of nutrients to water supplies, and studying other nutrient management issues. For more information see www.illinoisnrec.org.

  • Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership: 2019-20 Update

    The Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership is a non-profit member-based organization working collaboratively to encourage the adoption of sustainable and profitable production practices that improve soil health and restore local waters. By developing comprehensive programming, building a strong network of sustainable agriculture advocates, and sharing relevant research and resources, the partnership is committed to working together to support healthy soil, clean water, and profitable farms in Illinois. The organization invites conservation leaders to share their own conservation story by adding their pin to its new Conservation Story Map at ilsustainableag.org/conservation-story-map.

    Updates on previously-reported NLRS programs and projects, such as the Advanced Conservation Drainage Training, Advanced Soil Health Training, and Soil Health and Conservation Drainage Specialist Network (Local Farmer-Led Networks), and Illinois Alphabet Soup Group, can be found at www.ilsustainableag.org

  • Illinois Sustainable Agriculture Partnership: 2017-18 Update

    The Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership is a non-profit member-based organization working collaboratively to encourage the adoption of sustainable and profitable production practices that improve soil health and restore local waters. By developing comprehensive programming, building a strong network of sustainable agriculture advocates, and sharing relevant research and resources, the partnership is committed to working together to support healthy soil, clean water, and profitable farms in Illinois. The organization invites conservation leaders to share their own conservation story by adding their pin to its new Conservation Story Map at ilsustainableag.org/conservation-story-map.

    Updates on previously-reported NLRS programs and projects, such as the Advanced Conservation Drainage Training, Advanced Soil Health Training, and Soil Health and Conservation Drainage Specialist Network (Local Farmer-Led Networks), and Illinois Alphabet Soup Group, can be found at www.ilsustainableag.org

  • Illinois Sustainable Agriculture Partnership: 2021-22 Update

    The Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership is a non-profit member-based organization working collaboratively to encourage the adoption of sustainable and profitable production practices that improve soil health and restore local waters. By developing comprehensive programming, building a strong network of sustainable agriculture advocates, and sharing relevant research and resources, the partnership is committed to working together to support healthy soil, clean water, and profitable farms in Illinois. The organization invites conservation leaders to share their own conservation story by adding their pin to its new Conservation Story Map at ilsustainableag.org/conservation-story-map.

    Updates on previously-reported NLRS programs and projects, such as the Advanced Conservation Drainage Training, Advanced Soil Health Training, and Soil Health and Conservation Drainage Specialist Network (Local Farmer-Led Networks), and Illinois Alphabet Soup Group, can be found at www.ilsustainableag.org.

  • ILSoyAdvisor: 2021-22 Update

    New in this Biennial Report, the ILSoyAdvisor agronomy team and website resources provide expert agronomic and management advice for Illinois soybean production. Funded by the Illinois Soybean Association checkoff program, it provides education, outreach, networking, and technical assistance on a variety of practices recommended by the NLRS. For more information, see www.ilsoyadvisor.com.

  • Keep it 4R Crop: 2017-18 Update

    The Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association’s Keep it 4R Crop program is based on principles of 4R nutrient stewardship: use the right nutrient source, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. IFCA works closely with its members, including fertilizer manufacturers, distributors, and agricultural retailers, to promote the 4Rs and uphold the IFCA 4R Code of Practice, which promotes education and adoption of specific fertilizer management practices designed to reduce nutrient losses and assure nutrient use by the crop. 

  • Keep it 4R Crop: 2019-20 Update

    The Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association’s Keep it 4R Crop program is based on principles of 4R nutrient stewardship: use the right nutrient source, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. IFCA works closely with its members, including fertilizer manufacturers, distributors, and agricultural retailers, to promote the 4Rs and uphold the IFCA 4R Code of Practice, which promotes education and adoption of specific fertilizer management practices designed to reduce nutrient losses and assure nutrient use by the crop. 

  • Keep it 4R Crop: 2021-22 Update

    The Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association’s Keep it 4R Crop program is based on principles of 4R nutrient stewardship: use the right nutrient source, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. IFCA works closely with its members, including fertilizer manufacturers, distributors, and agricultural retailers, to promote the 4Rs and uphold the IFCA 4R Code of Practice, which promotes education and adoption of specific fertilizer management practices designed to reduce nutrient losses and assure nutrient use by the crop.

  • Lawn to Lake: 2017-18 Update

    In 2021–22, the Lawn to Lake Midwest Program used insights from the 2019 Lawn Caretaker Survey to develop five outreach tools, distribute 50,000 copies of each across the state, and create a comprehensive website to showcase them. A social media campaign raised awareness of the new resources by generating 85,000 impressions, or views, and driving 10,000 users to the new website. For more information, see LawntoLakeMidwest.org.  

  • Lawn to Lake: 2019-20 Update

    In 2021–22, the Lawn to Lake Midwest Program used insights from the 2019 Lawn Caretaker Survey to develop five outreach tools, distribute 50,000 copies of each across the state, and create a comprehensive website to showcase them. A social media campaign raised awareness of the new resources by generating 85,000 impressions, or views, and driving 10,000 users to the new website. For more information, see LawntoLakeMidwest.org

  • Lawn to Lake Midwest: 2021-22 Update

    In 2021–22, the Lawn to Lake Midwest Program used insights from the 2019 Lawn Caretaker Survey to develop five outreach tools, distribute 50,000 copies of each across the state, and create a comprehensive website to showcase them. A social media campaign raised awareness of the new resources by generating 85,000 impressions, or views, and driving 10,000 users to the new website. For more information, see LawntoLakeMidwest.org.

  • Lawn to Lake Midwest: 2023-24 Update

    In 2021–22, the Lawn to Lake Midwest Program used insights from the 2019 Lawn Caretaker Survey to develop five outreach tools, distribute 50,000 copies of each across the state, and create a comprehensive website to showcase them. A social media campaign raised awareness of the new resources by generating 85,000 impressions, or views, and driving 10,000 users to the new website. For more information, see LawntoLakeMidwest.org

  • Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group: 2017-18 Update

    The Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group coordinates a watershed bioassessment program to identify and address priority water quality issues in the Lower Des Plaines River and its 19 tributaries. The workgroup also provides extensive outreach materials for members and the public on issues related to water quality. For more information, see www.LDPWatersheds.org.

  • Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group: 2019-20 Update

    The Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group coordinates a watershed bioassessment program to identify and address priority water quality issues in the Lower Des Plaines River and its 19 tributaries. The workgroup also provides extensive outreach materials for members and the public on issues related to water quality. For more information, see www.LDPWatersheds.org.

  • Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group: 2021-22 Update

    The Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group coordinates a watershed bioassessment program to identify and address priority water quality issues in the Lower Des Plaines River and its 19 tributaries. The workgroup also provides extensive outreach materials for members and the public on issues related to water quality. For more information, see www.LDPWatersheds.org.