SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) Illinois wheat producers have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a voluntary wheat check-off program aimed at boosting research, market development, and production. The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced Thursday that the referendum passed by a margin of 207 to 69.
Under the new program, a 1.5 cent per bushel assessment will be collected beginning January 1, 2026. The check-off is designed to fund efforts under the Illinois Wheat Development Act, which supports innovation and adaptation in the state’s wheat industry.
The IDOA will work with the Illinois Wheat Checkoff Committee in the coming weeks to establish procedures for electing members to the Illinois Wheat Development Board, with elections expected in fall 2025.
“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,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “The wheat check-off will foster continued growth, positioning Illinois as a global leader in wheat production.”
The program aims to support research, promote Illinois wheat in both domestic and global markets, and help producers meet evolving consumer and industry demands.