By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is bringing back the popular Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program for its sixth year. This program encourages farmers to plant cover crops by offering discounts on crop insurance premiums.
The pre-enrollment period begins at 8 a.m. CST on December 4, 2024, allowing users to input and validate their information.
Applications officially open at 8 a.m. CST on December 16, 2024, and will close at 11:59 p.m. CST on January 15, 2025. Farmers can save and edit their applications before submission.
In 2025, 190,000 acres are available under the program, with funding provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Last year, the acreage limit was met in less than an hour, highlighting the program’s popularity.
Eligible applicants can receive up to a $5 per acre discount on their 2025 crop insurance premiums for verified cover crop acres.
The program is designed to support Illinois farmers in adopting sustainable practices. According to IDOA Director Jerry Costello II, “Cover crops improve soil health, reduce erosion, and help combat drought.” Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Interim Director James Jennings noted the state’s efforts to expand the program by adding 40,000 additional acres in 2023.
To apply, farmers must certify their cover crops with their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) and provide their FSA-578 and crop insurance policy numbers. The program is limited to those with insurance coverage through the USDA Risk Management Agency.
Applications can be completed online at the IDOA website or directly through the program’s portal. Farmers are encouraged to act quickly to secure their spots in this competitive and impactful program.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy