By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Soybean Association has named Kris Reynolds as the recipient of the 2026 Dave Rahe Excellence in Soils Consulting Award.
This award recognizes a Certified Crop Adviser who has made outstanding contributions to soil management within Illinois soybean production systems while honoring the legacy of Dave Rahe and his commitment to soil health.
Reynolds has spent more than 24 years working to improve soil science, conservation agriculture, and sustainable farming practices across Illinois. His career began as a resource conservationist with the Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation District, where he worked directly with farmers for many years to apply practical land management and conservation practices.
He later served as a cover crop specialist with the Illinois Council on Best Management Practices, where he helped expand the use of soil improving practices statewide. Through education and field support, he encouraged farmers to adopt methods that protect soil while supporting strong crop yields.
Since 2017, Reynolds has served as Midwest Regional Director and Central Managing Director for American Farmland Trust. In this role, he leads watershed partnerships and supports the implementation of Illinois’ Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy.
His work includes guiding collaborative conservation efforts in watersheds such as Upper Macoupin Creek and Vermillion Headwaters, helping improve soil health, nutrient efficiency, and water quality.
As a Certified Crop Adviser with specialties in nutrient management and sustainability, Reynolds follows a farmer first approach. He promotes practical and economically sound strategies such as cover crops, no till farming, and 4R nutrient stewardship.
He also uses these practices on his own farm in Nokomis, Illinois, allowing him to share real world experience with other producers.
Reynolds holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agronomy and agricultural business from Illinois State University and has completed extensive technical training. He has also served on the board of the STAR program, supporting the evaluation of field level conservation practices.
The Illinois Soybean Association congratulates Kris Reynolds for his dedication to soil health and his lasting impact on agriculture in Illinois.
Photo Credit: illinois-soybean-association
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle