Illinois’ only cover crop incentive program could lose nearly a third of its funding under Gov. JB Pritzker’s proposed state budget. A bill to increase funding missed Friday’s committee deadline. Farmers and environmental advocates warn conservation efforts could stall without it.
An analysis by Investigative Midwest found that a substantial share of Iowa’s rivers and lakes labeled as impaired have remained in poor condition for at least a decade, highlighting persistent pollution risks for swimmers, boaters, and others who regularly use these waters.
Oklahoma leaders have embraced large-scale battery storage as part of the state’s growing wind and solar industry. But farmers fear fire risks, land devaluation and a lack of local control.
Trump’s rapid dismantling of federal agencies is disrupting key government oversight functions. Critics say cuts at the EPA will stall investigations into industrial ag pollution in marginalized communities.
During his second term, Trump is expected to ease regulations on water protections, agricultural emissions, and industrial pollution. With federal oversight potentially shrinking, the spotlight shifts to state laws and environmental advocacy.
Every Saturday, farmer Liz Graznak and her staff begin their day before dawn, loading a trailer full of organic produce, eggs and flowers. They pull out of Happy Hollow Farm
