Experts Join IL Soy Envoy Program 2025

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) has announced the 2025 class of IL Soy Envoys. Six agricultural professionals will work with Illinois farmers from April to October, offering research-based advice to improve crop production and farm profitability. Their updates and insights will be shared through FieldAdvisor.org, along with blogs, videos, and crop reports throughout the season.

“The IL Soy Envoy program is a prime example of checkoff dollars in action—connecting farmers with agronomic experts who bring real-world solutions to the field,” said Kelsey Litchfield, ISA Agronomic Outreach Manager. “These six professionals bring hands-on agronomic expertise to the field, delivering timely information and analysis to help farmers improve yields, overcome agronomic challenges, and adapt to emerging issues. Their work ensures that Illinois soybean growers have the latest on-farm data and recommendations at their fingertips throughout the growing season.”

The six Envoys bring experience from various areas, including crop scouting, pest management, weed control, seed placement, and conservation practices.

They are:

• Haley Brokate from Paxton, IL, who specializes in fertility plans and weed control strategies.
• Torey Colburn from Mendota, IL, with expertise in conservation methods and soil health.
• Byron Hendrix of Kewanee, IL, who focuses on plant health, weed resistance, and pest control.
• Matt Montgomery of Chatham, IL, who offers knowledge on pest resistance and soybean diseases.
• Seth Wiley from Ottawa, IL, experienced in seed selection and high-yield strategies.
• Mike Wilson of Allendale, IL, who emphasizes soil and water conservation and precision farming.

The IL Soy Envoy program is funded by the Illinois Soybean Checkoff and aims to deliver real-time information to soybean farmers. It combines the efforts of crop advisors, consultants, and industry professionals to share valuable tools and recommendations directly with growers.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-gilaxia.