By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) extends its gratitude to Rich Clemmons for more than forty years of unwavering dedication to the agriculture industry in Illinois. Clemmons recently announced his retirement, culminating over a decade of service as a lobbyist for ICGA since 2008.
"Rich Clemmons has been a remarkable advocate for agriculture, significantly impacting Illinois farmers through landmark legislation during his career," stated ICGA President Matt Rush. "We are immensely grateful for Rich's invaluable contributions to ICGA and extend our best wishes for his retirement."
Clemmons commenced his professional journey with the Illinois Agricultural Association, now known as the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB), starting as a college janitor. Following graduation, he undertook various roles within IFB, including serving as the Mason County Farm Bureau Executive Secretary and holding a position in local government within the IFB Governmental Affairs and Commodity Division.
Transitioning to a lobbyist role in 1979, Clemmons dedicated 36 years to the organization. Post-retirement, he became part of GovPlus Capitol Consulting, engaging in policy matters concerning ICGA and the Illinois Renewable Fuels Association.
Throughout his illustrious career, Clemmons played a pivotal role in passing significant legislation, notably the Illinois Farmland Assessment Law, allowing taxing agricultural land based on productivity and soil type rather than its value. He also championed the establishment of the Illinois Corn Marketing Act, which introduced the Illinois corn checkoff program.
Clemmons' advocacy spanned various sectors, including his instrumental efforts in Illinois's original E10 tax incentive within the biofuels industry, representing corn farmers in collaboration with ICGA before his formal association with the organization.
Reflecting on his journey, Clemmons expressed admiration for farmers, lauding their dedication to production and community. "You can't find better people in the world than farmers," he remarked. Clemmons has also been active in non-professional roles, serving as president of the 4-H Foundation Board and the Illinois State University Alumni Association, while actively participating in the First Baptist Church in Bloomington alongside his wife Gretchen since 1977.
Photo Credit: illinois-corn-growers-association
Categories: Illinois, General