Illinois wheat producers have voted to implement a voluntary wheat check-off program, passing the measure by a margin of 207 to 69. The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) certified the referendum results, which establish a 1.5 cent per bushel assessment rate.
Set to take effect January 1, 2026, the program aims to foster new markets for wheat and wheat products, fund research, and enhance production capabilities.
"Agriculture is our state's #1 industry, and we are proud to be the #11 producer of wheat in the nation, producing 60.2 million bushels in 2024," said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. "The wheat check-off will foster continued growth, positioning Illinois as a global leader in wheat production."
The Illinois Wheat Checkoff Committee will work with IDOA to implement procedures for electing members to the Illinois Wheat Development Board this fall.
