February 3, 2026

COUNTRY Financial® and Illinois Farm Bureau to Host Series of Ag Summits for Illinois Farmers in February

COUNTRY Financial and the Illinois Farm Bureau will provide essential economic and financial information for farmers at a series of ag summits that will take place throughout Illinois in February.

The events will feature presentations from the following experts and topics:

• David Widmar, Agricultural Economist and Researcher
• Kris Kline, CLF, Manager, Financial Specialists at COUNTRY Financial
• Amy Rademaker, Rural Health and Farm Safety Specialist

Illinois Farm Bureau members who attend will receive a Peace of Mind planner, a booklet that consolidates important documents and information in one place.

“It’s no secret that the farm economy has been tough, especially for crop producers,” said Widmar. “What’s often overlooked is how we got here and how farmers should position their business. It’s important for producers to be specific about the unique risks and challenges their operations face and to connect those realities to broader market trends and decisions to be made in 2026.”

Kline will discuss estate and succession planning for farmers. He will review the key components of a strong succession plan and will review the key steps to take without feeling overwhelmed by the process. “Estate and succession planning works to keep Illinois farms in the hands of Illinois families,” said Kline. “Death, disability or illness can change the farm operation overnight. Estate and succession planning ensures the operation can continue and the family is protected.”

“Illinois farm families are facing rising costs, financial pressures, and ongoing stress that can make it difficult to step back and plan for the future,” said IFB President Philip Nelson. “These ag summits bring together trusted experts and practical resources to help farmers have important conversations about their finances, their well-being, and how to preserve their farm legacy for the next generation.”

Ag Summit Dates and Locations

• February 18 at Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, IL
• February 18 at Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mount Vernon, IL
• February 19 at Panther Creek Country Club in Springfield, IL
• February 19 at Pekin Country Club in Pekin, IL
• February 20 at Urbana Country Club in Urbana, IL
• February 23 at Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena, IL
• February 24 at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, IL

Attendees must RSVP to https://cfin.us/2026AgSummit.

Media contact

Carrie Skogsberg, COUNTRY Financial

309-821-4175; carrie.skogsberg@countryfinancial.com