This year’s series of IFES meetings will update attendees on the current state of the Midwest farm economy and discuss the challenges and opportunities currently facing farmers. Despite improved pricing prospects, producers continue to operate in a challenging environment of tight margins. Production costs have continued to rise and remain subject to significant uncertainty and volatility due to ongoing geopolitical developments. At the same time, changes to biofuels and tax policy may create market opportunities for grains and oilseeds produced in ways that allow biofuel producers to qualify for low-carbon fuel tax credits.
Registration
Preregistration for the 2026 IFES meetings is $80 per person through December 7th. Registration is $100 per person one week before the event (beginning December 8th). Walk-in registrations will be accepted the day of the meetings if space allows but cannot be guaranteed.
For registration questions contact Todd Gleason, tgleason@illinois.edu.
Dates and Locations
- Monday, December 14, 2026 – Mt. Vernon, IL – Farm Credit Illinois
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026 – Sherman, IL – Farm Credit Illinois
- Wednesday, December 16, 2026 – Peoria, IL – Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino
- Thursday, December 17, 2026 – Dekalb, IL – DeKalb County Farm Bureau
Daily Schedule
Welcome and intro from Todd Gleason – 7:55 to 8:00 am
Session 1: Market, Financial and Income Outlook Presentations – 8:00 to 9:30 am
- Grain/Livestock Market Outlook
- Macroeconomic Outlook
- Farm Financial Trends and Income Outlook
- Government Program and Risk Management Update
Break – 9:30 to 9:45 am
Session 2: Dealing with High Production Costs – 9:45 to 11:00 am
A combination of presentations, discussion, and Q&A focused on management strategies with high production costs. Panelists will discuss the current situation, including relevant policy developments, and provide an outlook for crop inputs, machinery, and farmland. Strategies for producers to consider in making management decisions for their operations will be provided.
Break – 11:00 to 11:15 am
Session 3: Biofuels and Tax Policy – 11:15 am to 12:30 pm
A combination of presentations, discussion, and Q&A covering the latest developments in biofuels policy. Focus will be on the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) for low-carbon fuels, the impact on grain and oilseed markets, and potential opportunities for producers.
Lunch – 12:30 to 1:30 pm