By Andi Anderson
Nathan Johanning has been appointed as the new Extension Specialist -Commercial Agriculture in Specialty Crops, effective July 1. He succeeds Elizabeth Wahle, who previously held the position before her retirement.
A 13-year veteran of Illinois Extension, Johanning brings extensive experience in commercial agriculture and specialty crop production. Over the past seven years, he served as a Commercial Agriculture Educator for Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair Counties. Earlier in his Extension career, he worked as a Local Foods and Small Farms Educator serving Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph, and Williamson Counties.
Throughout his career, Johanning has developed expertise in several areas of crop production, including pumpkin production, no-till and cover-crop systems, integrated pest management, and weed control strategies. He also has significant experience in fruit and vegetable production, on-farm research trials, and applied horticultural practices designed to help growers improve productivity and sustainability.
Known as a valuable resource for farmers and agricultural professionals across Illinois and the broader Midwest, Johanning has built strong relationships within the specialty crops industry through his educational programming, technical guidance, and research efforts.
In his new role, he will focus on supporting commercial fruit and vegetable growers while advancing Extension’s outreach and research initiatives in specialty crops. The position provides an opportunity for Johanning to expand his work with growers, helping address production challenges and promote practical, science-based solutions for the industry.
His appointment ensures continued support for Illinois’ specialty crop sector and strengthens Extension’s commitment to serving the needs of commercial fruit and vegetable producers across the state.
Photo Credit: extension.illinois.edu
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Sustainable Agriculture