Production Risk Management

Cover crops on Rob Stout farm. Stout is  a long-time no-tiller and has used cover crops for a number of years on his  farm in Washington County, IA.

Improving soil health and water quality are crucial to reducing environmental risk, and there is growing evidence that these improvements will also lead to increased profitability for farmers. ISAP’s Production Risk Management programs engage farmers, advisors, and conservation practitioners to emphasize the role of soil health and water quality practices in building profitable and resilient agricultural systems. 

ISAP is leading efforts to provide clear, transparent information to farmers and their advisors on how best to mitigate production risks, adapt to a changing climate, and evaluate carbon market opportunities. 

Risk Management Conference

ISAP’s bi-annual Risk Management Conference highlights the use of soil health and conservation drainage practices as tools to mitigate production risk. The Conference aims to increase the knowledge of farmers, landowners, and advisers, bringing the agriculture industry together to highlight how conservation practices build resiliency for Illinois farms.

Climate-Smart Agriculture

Agriculture is on the frontlines of our changing climate. As temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events increase, farmers are facing increased risk to the success of their crops and the sustainability of their livelihoods. Implementing practices like cover crops and no-till increases soil organic matter and improves soil health, and with over 23 million acres of cropland across the state, Illinois farmers are uniquely positioned to offer immediate, scalable solutions to the climate crisis.  

ISAP is dedicated to supporting farmers as they adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. By disseminating relevant research, creating a strong network of informed advisors, and promoting the adoption of climate smart agricultural practices, ISAP is committed to ensuring that Illinois agriculture benefits from being part of the climate solution. 

Ecosystem Markets

Ecosystem markets are an emerging tool with potential to incentivize the increased adoption of soil health systems. ISAP is leading efforts to increase transparency on various market incentives and facilitate data sharing among farmer networks. 

Financial Incentive Directories

ISAP has developed three incentive directories to share financial payment opportunities available to farmers in Illinois for adopting conservation practices including cover crops, saturated buffers, and constructed wetlands. By viewing programs opportunities side by side, farmers will be able to compare programs and select the option that is best for their operation.  

Resources

Access a variety of program related resources.