Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois Department of Agriculture is launching the sixth year of its Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program. Farmers can pre-enroll now and submit applications starting at 8 a.m. on Dec. 16 and through Jan. 15.

The program offers a discount of up to $5 per acre on crop insurance for cover crops planted in fall 2024 and insured in 2025. A total of 190,000 acres are available, with funding on a first-come, first-served basis.

IDOA Director Jerry Costello II said, ““Cover crops are critically important for Illinois agriculture, creating a protective barrier that improves soil health, combats drought, reduces disease and decreases soil erosion.”

“Illinois’ participation in the U.S. Gulf Hypoxia Task Force made it possible for the state to enroll an additional 40,000 acres in 2023,” said Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Interim Director James Jennings.

Farmers must certify their cover crops with the Farm Service Agency and provide necessary documentation. Pre-enrollment and applications are available at: https://apps.agr.illinois.gov/BLWR_CoverCrop/