Soil & Water update: rebate outreach, cover crop programs and research partnerships

Cat presented the Kane County Soil & Water Conservation District update, noting a few date errors in the packet but highlighting program activity and outreach plans.

Staff reported a reboot of outreach for the county farm weatherization rebate with targeted flyers to places farmers frequent, and a plan to place materials at the county fair in July. Staff clarified the rebate targets farms on unincorporated county land, and that qualifying farmers must reside in the county even if small garden plots do not qualify.

The report noted CPRG activity (approximately 3,200 acres in application for no‑till) and that IDOA is accepting cover‑crop applications; staff offered to assist applicants through the process. The district also organized and participated in a risk‑management specialty‑crop workshop with American Farmland Trust.

Staff summarized a St. Charles Horticultural Research Station tour by the new Illinois Extension Director and said Klein's Quality Produce will till part of the site and donate two small high tunnels for vegetable research; produce grown there will be donated to local food pantries.

Committee members were invited to upcoming events, including the county fair in July, an appreciation event on May 27, and a retirement event on May 15 for a longtime Farm Bureau staffer.