FFA students and agricultural advocates from throughout Illinois descended on the Capitol during the week for Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day (IALD) on March 19. IALD brings together farm, agricultural commodity organizations and agriculture interest groups to advocate to lawmakers about the importance of Illinois agriculture.

Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) welcomed students from the 47th District to her Springfield office to discuss the importance of agriculture in Illinois, and agricultural education. Agriculture is a major driver of Illinois’ economy. Marketing of the state’s agricultural commodities generates more than $19 billion with billions more flowing into the state from ag-related industries.