Illinois Department of Agriculture

06/06/2026

Find more information here: https://sangamondepartments.blob.core.windows.net/dnnfiles/Health/pdf/Community%20Garden%20May%202026.pdf?sv=2017-04-17&sr=b&si=DNNFileManagerPolicy&sig=HAn4wJBlWqblq5EthazqWgqDvrOCyxO8SOtMGfNWT90%3D

06/05/2026

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is hosting a Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Tissue Sampling Class this July! Designed for deer producers, USDA Category II veterinarians, and veterinary technicians, this training includes a hands on wet lab and offers 3 hours of RACE approved CE for veterinary professionals. Questions? Email [email protected].

06/05/2026

Pesticide applicators, be sure to watch for wells when planning applications.
💧How can pesticides contaminate water?
💧What can pesticide applicators do to protect water?
Check out the article to learn more!

If you apply pesticides, good environmental safety practices can help protect sensitive areas that influence drinking water quality. Be aware of wells and geographic

06/04/2026

⚠️ USDA has confirmed the presence of New World Screwworm (NWS) in southern Texas.

New World Screwworm is a serious pest that can affect livestock, pets, wildlife, and, in rare cases, people. Unlike other maggots that feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae feed on living flesh, causing painful wounds that can become life-threatening if left untreated.

🐄 Livestock producers should be on the lookout for:
• Wounds that are draining, enlarging, or contain maggots
• Irritated behavior, head shaking, or animals separating from the herd
• Loss of appetite or signs of pain
• Egg masses around wounds, ears, noses, navels, or other body openings

Even wounds as small as a tick bite can attract a screwworm fly.

If you suspect New World Screwworm:
✅ Contact your veterinarian immediately
✅ Report suspicious wounds or infestations to your State Animal Health Official or USDA APHIS
✅ Treat and monitor all wounds closely

While New World Screwworm poses a significant threat to animal health and livestock production, it is NOT considered a food safety concern. Animals entering the food supply continue to undergo rigorous inspection to ensure consumer safety.

Early detection and reporting are critical to preventing the establishment and spread of this destructive pest.

Learn more: https://www.aphis.usda.gov

06/03/2026

☀️ As the days get warmer, the list of produce in season gets longer! 🌱

Here is what is in season in Illinois for the month of June:

Apples, Asparagus, Beans, Berries, Cabbage, Carrots, Cherries, Eggplant, Garlic, Horseradish, Leeks, Lettuce, Melons, Nectarines, Okra, Onions, Peaches, Peas, Plums, Potatoes, Radishes, Rhubarb, Spinach, Squash, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Turnips

06/02/2026

Another week in the books. 📈📉

Hear how livestock, grain, and commodity markets performed last week in the latest Market News audio drop. Available now.

🎙️

Weekly reports of livestock, grain, and commodity prices from the Illinois Department of Agriculture.For more information please visit: Market News (illinois.gov)

06/01/2026

🎡 Get behind the scenes at one of Illinois’ biggest events! 📸🎥

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is looking to hire two student workers for the Office of Communications during the 2026 Illinois State Fair.

This paid opportunity is perfect for students interested in communications, public relations, social media, photography, or video production. Duties include:
📱 Creating social media content
📸 Taking photos
🎬 Producing videos for the Illinois State Fair

Student workers will gain hands-on experience covering one of the most popular events in Illinois while learning how media relations and public communications operate during a large-scale event.

📅 Internship Dates: August 10–23, 2026

We encourage all qualified applicants to apply and experience a summer full of fun, creativity, and unforgettable Fair memories!

Apply now: https://illinois.jobs2web.com/job-invite/56409/

05/31/2026

Today, the final day of Mental Health Awareness Month, we urge you to take care of yourself, and reach out for help if you need it by calling 1-833-FARM-SOS.

05/30/2026

Illinois State Fair Box Office opens on Monday!

🎟️ The Illinois State Fair Box Office opens Monday, June 1!

Stop by the Grandstand or call in Monday–Friday from 8am–5pm to grab your 2026 Illinois State Fair entertainment tickets.

PLUS — anyone who purchases tickets through the Box Office on opening day (in person or over the phone) will be entered for a chance to win FREE admission and parking to the Fair. 66 winners will be selected, and you could be one!

🔥 And don’t miss your chance at one of 100 exclusive Ella Langley tickets available ONLY through the Box Office while supplies last! (Limit two tickets per person.)

05/29/2026

The 2026 County Fair season is officially underway!

The 2026 lineup of Illinois county fairs.