Illinois is a leading agricultural producer
Due to our central location in the country and our rich, fertile soil, Illinois is a leading producer of agricultural products for the country and world. The agriculture industry in Illinois is a primary contributor to our state’s economy, contributing $51.1 billion in value added. Seventy-six percent of Illinois land is farmland, and of those acres, 89% are used for cropland to grow valuable crops like corn and soybeans. Across Illinois you will find an estimated total of 70,000 farms, of which more than 93% are family-owned and operated.
Did you know?
Each Illinois farmer produces enough food to feed 156 people.
The average size of a farm in Illinois is 358 acres.
44% of grain produced in Illinois is exported out of the state or country.
Nearly 1 million people are employed in the food and fiber industry in Illinois.
Love History?
Visit the Illinois Agriculture Innovation and Invention website by clicking here.
Checkout the Illinois History Ag Mag by clicking here.
Thanks!
We would like to thank the Illinois Ag in the Classroom program for the use of the above resources.