By Andi Anderson
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is set to highlight groundbreaking research, interactive demonstrations, and expert discussions at the 2025 Farm Progress Show in Decatur.
Visitors to the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences and Illinois Extension tent — located near the main entrance — will gain insights into the future of food and farming.
Dean Germán Bollero emphasized that the university’s presence reflects its land-grant mission to serve farmers, families, and communities.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Bollero, Chancellor Charles Lee Isbell Jr., and Matthew Vann, the newly appointed associate dean and director of Illinois Extension, during scheduled meet-and-greet hours on August 26.
Panel discussions moderated by Illinois Extension’s Farm Broadcaster Todd Gleason will address timely agricultural issues such as global trade, weed management, and digital technology.
Leaders including U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski will join conversations about advancing innovation, preparing future generations, and building partnerships.
Interactive exhibits will further engage visitors. Highlights include next-generation ag technology, virtual reality safety training, scouting drones, and a cover crop seeding robot. A unique feature is the Illinois soil archive project, offering landowners free soil analyses valued at $5,000 if their property is included in the historic re-sampling effort.
Sustainability demonstrations will showcase pollinator-friendly practices, natural windbreaks, no-till methods, and cover crops. Illinois 4-H and FFA youth, alumni, and prospective students are invited to explore career opportunities, connect with mentors, and register for alumni programs.
ACES Online programs will also be featured for adult learners seeking flexible educational opportunities.
Through panels, exhibits, and youth engagement, Illinois will bring its leadership in agricultural research and innovation directly to farmers and communities at this year’s Farm Progress Show.
Photo Credit: farm-progress-show
Categories: Illinois, Education