Biosolids in Agriculture: Turning Waste into Growth

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current


What if something we flush every day could help grow the food we eat?

That’s the idea behind biosolids—nutrient-rich organic materials created from treated sewage. After going through a thorough cleaning and stabilization process at wastewater treatment plants, biosolids can be safely applied to farmland. Farmers across the country are using them to build healthier soils, boost yields, and cut down on synthetic fertilizer use.

At a glance, the benefits are hard to ignore. Biosolids are packed with essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. They also add organic matter to the soil, improving structure, water-holding capacity, and microbial life. For farmers, that can mean better crops and fewer input costs.

They also offer an environmental win: recycling nutrients back into the land rather than sending them to landfills. Some even help with carbon sequestration, locking carbon into the soil.

But like any agricultural tool, biosolids aren’t one-size-fits-all.

There are a few things to be aware of. Depending on the source and treatment process, biosolids can contain trace amounts of heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium. The good news is there are strict EPA regulations in place to monitor and limit these levels. Still, it’s something to stay informed about.

Researchers are also keeping an eye on “emerging contaminants” like pharmaceuticals and PFAS—chemicals found in many everyday products. These trace compounds can make their way into wastewater and, eventually, into biosolids. While current levels are low and health risks remain under study, it’s an area of active research.

And yes—biosolids can sometimes raise eyebrows with the public. Odor and the “ick factor” are real concerns. But with proper treatment and management, many of these concerns can be addressed.

Curious about how biosolids are made? Or how they're applied on real farms? There’s a lot more to the story—and it’s worth digging into.

Geneseo FFA Chapter Celebrates National FFA Week 2025

By Dawsyn McDonald
Geneseo FFA Chapter

Throughout the week of February 15-22, the Geneseo FFA Chapter celebrated National FFA Week with a fun-filled week of events, dress-up days, and contests! Each day of the week, students were able to pay $1.00 to wear a hat to school. At the end of the week, this money was donated to Farm Rescue, an organization that aids farmers through their hard times. On Monday, to kick off the celebrations, FFA members promoted a Western Wear dress-up day, where numerous students got out their boots to participate! The Geneseo FFA then had seven members compete in Proficiency Awards on Monday evening. Of these seven members, Joseph Venneberg, Bee Schieder, Bella Bailey, and Griffin DeWolfe placed first in their divisions and will be competing at the District contest next week! 

The celebrations continued into Tuesday and Wednesday with a FFA Apparel and Camo dress up days, and two section level competitions on Wednesday night! Four members competed in the Public Speaking leadership development event, and eleven competed in the Vet Science career development event. Camryn Ebert competed in the Creed Speaking division at the public speaking contest, where she was required to memorize and recite the FFA Creed, then answer oral questions related to the meaning of the Creed, and placed third in the varsity division! Dawsyn McDonald competed in the Prepared Speaking portion of the event, which asked her to write and memorize a speech about an issue within the agriculture industry, and also placed third in the varsity division! Austin Pearce and Jaiden Minnaert participated in the Extemporaneous Speaking division, where they had to draw an agricultural related topic, then write and present a speech on that topic within a time limit. Austin placed sixth in the varsity division, and Jaiden placed third in junior varsity!

Both the Greenhand and varsity Vet Science teams also saw great success at the section contest on Wednesday evening, with both placing first! Individually, in the varsity division Annabelle Betcher placed first, Bee Scheider was second, Joseph Venneberg placed third, and Kolby Causemaker placed fifth! In the greenhand division, individually Jacey Gehl placed first, Emilie DeCastecker placed second, Hannah Wildermuth was third, Kali Herberg was fourth, and Maycie Sims placed fifth! 

This excitement was followed by another busy day of events on Thursday, with the staff breakfast in the morning and the February Chapter meeting later that evening. In the morning, FFA members made and delivered pancakes, sausage, and drinks to the high school staff to show their appreciation for everything the people around the school do to support the FFA. This was followed by the February chapter meeting, where members competed in numerous Ag Olympics activities including a hay bale toss, hot wing challenge, milk chug, three legged races, and dodgeball! 

On Friday, members had the opportunity to drive their tractors or trucks to school! We saw numerous different kinds of vehicles from a wide variety of years. Ag classes then went outside to vote for their favorites in different categories including the cleanest, most field ready, and their personal favorites!

Finally, the Geneseo FFA rounded out National FFA Week with the largest fundraiser of the year, the Alumni Trivia Night! Members set up for the event in the morning, and had spent the weeks prior collecting a variety of donations from local businesses to be used in both live and silent auctions at the event. The evening included six rounds of trivia, numerous live and silent auctions, and raffles! Over three hundred people attended, making the evening a great success! 

How Agriculture Supports State Economies

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current


It’s easy to see agriculture as a national powerhouse, but the story gets even more interesting when you zoom in on the states. Every state has its own agricultural identity, shaped by its land, weather, and history.
In California, for example, the Central Valley alone grows a quarter of the country’s food. And then there’s the Midwest, where states like Illinois and Iowa dominate when it comes to crops like corn and soybeans.
The amazing thing about agriculture is that it impacts so much more than just local farms. When a farmer plants corn, it doesn’t just grow and get harvested. That crop fuels a whole chain of industries. Someone has to sell the seed, manufacture the tractor, deliver the grain, and process it into food or fuel. By the time the corn ends up as ethanol, livestock feed, or cereal on your breakfast table, it’s created jobs spanning dozens of different enterprises.
In many states, agriculture is more than just an economic driver, it’s a part of life. It brings people together and connects them to the land.
Whether it’s through big numbers on a spreadsheet or the stories of families running farms for generations, agriculture is what keeps many states, towns, and farms thriving. It’s a reminder that what happens in the fields matters everywhere.

How Agriculture Shapes the U.S. Economy - Agriculture’s Big Role

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

Have you ever stopped to think about how much agriculture affects your life? It’s not just about farms or the food on your plate, it’s a massive industry that keeps the U.S. economy running.

Agriculture is everywhere. It’s in the clothes you wear, the fuel in your car, and even in the jobs that support families in rural areas, urban areas, and everywhere in-between.

Nationally, agriculture is a powerhouse. Every year, it directly adds more than $400 billion to the economy. But when you consider all the other industries it touches, like food processing, transportation, and retail, that number shoots up to over 1 trillion dollars. And here’s the kicker: The U.S. is one of the top producers of corn, soybeans, wheat, and beef in the world, exporting billions of dollars’ worth of food every year. It’s not just about feeding America it’s about feeding the world.

What’s even more fascinating is how steady agriculture has been from generation to generation. Other industries have their ups and downs, but agriculture is always there. People need to eat no matter what and that stability keeps the economy moving forward. It’s also an industry that’s always looking ahead, leading the charge in areas like sustainable farming, biotechnology, and climate-friendly practices.

But it’s not just about the numbers or the innovation—it’s about people. Agriculture is the backbone of rural communities, creating jobs and funding schools, hospitals, and public services. Even if you live in the city, agriculture affects you in ways you might not understand. The food you buy, the gas you pump, the clothes you wear, they all connect back to farming. Agriculture doesn’t just feed the country, it fuels it.

Local FFA Member Receives Grant from Brett Begemann Foundation

Geneseo, IL - A $1,000 SAE grant has been awarded to Maycie Sims of Geneseo, Illinois by The Brett Begemann Foundation

Maycie Sims

SAE grants are designed to help FFA members create or expand Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects, a requirement that all FFA members must complete. An SAE requires FFA members to create and operate an agriculture-related business, work at an agriculture-related business or conduct an agricultural research experience. Upon completion, FFA members must submit a comprehensive report regarding their career development experience.

This year 26 different sponsors funded SAE Grants. A full list of sponsors can be found on the National FFA Organization website on the SAE Grants webpage.

Sims is a member of the Geneseo FFA Chapter. Their application was selected from among 1,238 applications nationwide.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About National FFA Foundation
The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders and support the future of agricultural education. A separately registered nonprofit organization, the foundation is governed by a board of trustees that includes the national FFA president, educators, business leaders and individual donors. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.

The preceding information was provided by Geneseo High School.

Winter on the Farm: What Farmers Do When the Fields are Quiet?

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

When the last leaf falls, and the fields turn barren, it's easy to assume that farmers just rest for the winter. After all, the growing season has ended and harvest has been completed. But if you think the work stops there, think again.

For farmers, winter isn't a time for hibernation. It’s a crucial season that comes with its own set of responsibilities. Whether they’re in charge of raising livestock, growing crops, or managing equipment, farmers stay busy throughout the colder months.

Livestock Care

During the colder months, livestock require more attention. Farmers check that barns and pens are insulated and safe from the cold. Water troughs need remain thawed, and hay or grain must be provided in higher quantities, as animals burn more calories staying warm.

Veterinary care is also more frequent during winter, as cold weather can lead to health issues for animals, such as respiratory problems or infections. Farmers keep an eye out for any signs of illness and take the necessary steps to care for their animals before problems arise.

Equipment Maintenance

Winter weather allows farmers take advantage of the seasonal slowdown to perform maintenance on equipment. Tractors, combines, and other machinery need to be cleaned, serviced, and repaired, ensuring they're ready to go once planting season rolls around.

For farmers, equipment is an investment, and keeping it running smoothly year-round helps prevent costly repairs in the spring, when time is of the essence. This also includes inspecting fences, irrigation systems, and other infrastructure. Which all may need attention before the next growing season.

Planning and Paperwork

Winter is when farmers turn their attention to planning for the year ahead. With the growing season months away, we take time to map out crop rotations, select seed varieties, and prepare for planting. This is also a period of reflection, as farmers review the previous year's challenges and successes to make informed decisions for the future.

Every winter is a busy time for paperwork. Farmers manage a variety of tasks, including securing loans or grants, reviewing financial records, planning budgets, and organizing tax documents. With so many factors to consider, winter planning and paperwork are essential for keeping a farm running smoothly and efficiently.

Community Involvement

The downtime between fall and spring gives us a chance to get involved. Many farmers attend agricultural conferences, workshops, and networking events to stay updated on trends and new technology in the industry. These gatherings are a valuable way to share tips, discuss challenges, and learn from others in the field. 

Marketing Grain

While the crops are harvested in the fall, the sale of grain often continues through the winter months. Farmers must stay informed about market trends and commodity prices to decide when and where to sell their grain for the best price. This could mean working with local elevators, brokers, or even selling directly to mills and processors. Many farmers also use contracts to lock in prices ahead of time, offering a bit of financial security.

The winter months provide the opportunity to analyze the previous year’s market performance, plan for future sales, and make strategic decisions to ensure they maximize the value of their crops. This requires a good understanding of supply and demand as prices can fluctuate based on global factors like weather events, international trade, and crop yields in other parts of the world.

While the winter months may appear quieter on the surface, farmers are far from idle. From animal care to machinery maintenance, strategic planning, and community involvement, there’s always something to keep them occupied. Their hard work during the winter ensures that when the warmer months return, they’re prepared for the next growing season—and for all the challenges it may bring. So, the next time you see a field covered in snow, remember that behind the scenes, farmers are still working hard to keep our food system strong and sustainable.

Breaking Free: How Non-GMO Hybrids Can Empower Farmers in Tough Times

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

For small and mid-sized farmers, the current economic landscape is more than challenging—it’s personal. Every dollar counts, every yield matters, and every decision impacts not just the farm, but the family and the legacy tied to it. In this environment, planting non-GMO hybrids offers a practical and profitable way to regain control and improve resilience.

Save Money Where It Matters Most
 Non-GMO seeds are more affordable than GMO varieties, meaning less of your hard-earned money goes toward upfront costs. Additionally, non-GMO farming often requires fewer expensive herbicides and pesticides. When every expense on the farm feels heavier than ever, these savings add up quickly and can make the difference between breaking even and turning a profit.

Put More in Your Pocket with Premium Markets
 There’s a growing demand for non-GMO crops from consumers who want transparency in their food. Many buyers are willing to pay premiums for non-GMO grain, creating a unique opportunity for farmers to earn more per bushel. Unlike many farming practices, planting non-GMO hybrids doesn’t just cut costs—it can increase income, giving you a much-needed edge in a competitive marketplace.

Proven Yields Without the Extra Costs
 Some farmers worry that non-GMO hybrids can’t compete with GMOs in yield, but the results speak for themselves: non-GMO hybrids are delivering competitive—and in some cases, superior—yields in real-world conditions. In organic systems, yields exceeding 267 bushels per acre aren’t just theory—they’re happening. Plus, with non-GMO seeds, you’re not locked into someone else’s traits. You have the freedom to choose genetics that fit your fields, your soil, and your farm.

Take Back Control of Your Farm
 One of the biggest frustrations for small and mid-sized farmers is feeling trapped—by rising costs, by market demands, by contracts with big seed companies. Non-GMO hybrids break that cycle. They give you more independence to make decisions that fit your needs, not someone else’s agenda. Companies like Prairie Hybrids support farmers with personalized service and expert recommendations to help you succeed on your terms.

Better for the Land and Your Family
 Your farm isn’t just a business—it’s your home and your future. Non-GMO farming supports healthier soil, fosters biodiversity, and reduces chemical use. That’s better for the environment, your family, and the generations that will work your fields after you. It’s not just sustainable; it’s practical stewardship that benefits everyone.

A Smarter Path in a Tough Economy
 For small and mid-sized farmers, every decision is a balancing act. Non-GMO hybrids provide a clear path forward: lower costs, higher earning potential, competitive yields, and greater independence. In today’s weak farm economy, planting non-GMO isn’t just a choice—it’s a strategy for survival and success.

Take the step. Choose non-GMO hybrids and build a stronger, more resilient future for your farm and your family. If you would like to talk about options Selected and Produced for your farm, please reach out to Curt at Maplewood Ag. Call or text 309-314-3603.

The American Farmer's Role in the Upcoming Christmas Holiday

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current


As families across the United States prepare for their Christmas celebrations, American farmers are working tirelessly to ensure that holiday tables are filled with delicious, locally-grown foods. From the centerpiece roast turkey to the variety of side dishes and desserts, agriculture plays a vital role in our cherished holiday traditions. 

The Christmas season begins on many farms long before December. Christmas tree farmers, numbering between 15,000 to 20,000 across the nation, have spent years nurturing the 25-36 million fresh-cut trees that will adorn American homes this year. These trees not only provide festive cheer but also support local economies and employ nearly 100,000 people either full- or part-time. 

Livestock farmers work year-round to raise the turkeys, hams, and prime ribs that will become the focal points of Christmas dinners. Poultry farmers ensure that millions of turkeys are ready for the holiday season, while pork and beef producers provide the hams and roasts that grace many tables. 

Crop farmers contribute significantly to the holiday spread. Potato farmers in states like Idaho and Washington supply the staples for mashed potatoes, while sweet potato growers in southern states provide the foundation for beloved casseroles. Corn farmers in the heartland produce the basics for creamed corn and corn puddings, popular side dishes during the festive season. 

Fruit and vegetable farmers also play a crucial role. Cranberry bogs yield the berries for sauces and relishes, while pumpkin farms and apple orchards provide the key ingredients for classic holiday pies. Green bean farmers ensure there's plenty for the traditional green bean casserole, and Brussels sprouts growers contribute to the diverse vegetable offerings. 

Many families continue the tradition of home gardening and food preservation, echoing the practices of earlier generations. They spend summer months canning and freezing homegrown vegetables, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of their labor during the holiday season. This connection to agriculture, even on a small scale, enhances the appreciation for the work of larger commercial farms. 

As noted by one dairy farming family, even on Christmas Day, the cows need to be fed and milked. This commitment ensures that fresh dairy products are available for holiday recipes and that Santa has milk to accompany his cookies. 

As we gather around our Christmas tables, it's important to recognize the hard work and dedication of American farmers. From the fields to our forks, agriculture is deeply woven into the fabric of our holiday traditions. This Christmas, let's take a moment to appreciate and thank the farmers who work tirelessly to bring us together over delicious, homegrown food.

From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Geneseo FFA Chapter Attends the 97th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana

By Dawsyn McDonald
Geneseo High School FFA

From October 22 to the 25th, 11 members of the Geneseo FFA chapter traveled to Indianapolis to attend the 97th National FFA Convention. Throughout the week, the attendees were able to participate in numerous events and opportunities and were also recognized for multiple awards. On the first day, they toured Hummel Livestock where they learned about the breeding and care of savannah cats, met exotic pets, and heard about the breeding processes of high-level cattle and goats. Later that evening, they enjoyed a delicious meal at St. Elmo's Steakhouse to finish the day.

The attendees began the second day of the trip with a tour of Hunter's Honey Farm where they had the opportunity to taste different variations of honey, bottle their own honey, and learn about the honey-making process. After lunch, the group traveled to the convention center. Here they could shop at the numerous vendors or learn about the opportunities for college and future jobs in the Expo Center's Career Fair. Then, the members attended the opening session of the convention which featured keynote speaker Kevin Wanzer. To end the day, the group was able to attend the Megan Moroney concert at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. 

Submitted Photo

On the third day of the National FFA Convention, the Geneseo FFA Marketing Plan team, consisting of Joseph Venneberg, Austin Pearce, and Ayden Kane, competed in the National contest, where they advanced to the semifinals and ended with a silver ranking! While the team competed, the rest of the members in attendance enjoyed workshops and some free time in the convention center. In the workshops, they were able to meet new people from across the country, grow their own leadership and communication skills, and learn about all of the opportunities that the FFA and the agriculture industry hold for them. The Geneseo FFA Chapter was then recognized at the fourth general session for being ranked as a Three Star Chapter! To end this eventful day, the Marketing Plan Team attended an award ceremony while the other attendees watched a hypnotist show. 

For the final day of the convention, the Geneseo FFA chapter volunteered through the National FFA Living to Serve Day at St Vincent's. Here they helped to sort clothes into sizes, hang up clothes for sale, move decorations, and organize the items. After their morning of service, the group stopped at Culver's for lunch before heading home! The 97th National FFA Convention was a wonderful experience for all in attendance!

Corn Sweat?

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

If you have spent some time on social media recently or you have watched your local news you have most likely heard about corn sweat, but what is it?  Corn sweat refers to the process of evapotranspiration, where corn plants release moisture into the atmosphere. This occurs when the plants absorb water from the soil through their roots, which is then transported to their leaves. Tiny pores on the leaves, called stomata, open during the day to allow carbon dioxide in for photosynthesis while simultaneously releasing water vapor into the air. 

Why does this happen? This process helps cool the plant, similar to how sweating cools humans. The plants need to regulate their temperature to survive. 

While the term "corn sweat" is popular, it's important to note that all plants undergo evapotranspiration, not just corn. Some research suggests that soybeans may contribute even more moisture than corn in certain cases.

Corn sweat is a natural process that plays a significant role in local weather patterns, particularly in the Midwest. While it can make summer heat feel more oppressive, it's also a sign of healthy, growing crops.

How much water is given off by a corn plant? Let's do some math and give it some real numbers. On average a plant can give up 3 - 4  cups of water per day.  Lets just use 3 cups per day, 1 acre and 34,000 plants per acre.
That 1 acre would give off approximately 6,375 gallons of water. That is from an acre of corn or about 1 football field of area.  An 80 acre field could give off just over 500,000 gallons of water a day. That’s enough water to fill one Olympic swimming pool.

Derecho's Affect All of Us - By Curt Jacobs

By Curt Jacobs
Correspondent

Until recently, the term derecho was new to most of us.  The National Weather Service gives the description of a Derecho as a widespread, long-lived wind storm. Derechos are associated with bands of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms. They have some additional requirements including  a swath of wind damage that extends at least 400 miles,and is at least 60 miles  wide, includes wind gusts of at least 58 mph along most of its length, and also includes several, well-separated 75 mph or greater gusts. The majority of  these storms are found in North America.

The first of these storms to be identified as a derecho was documented in 1877. It traveled from South Dakota to Ohio. Derechos on average occur once every 2 years in Iowa and on average once per year in Illinois. The storm that crossed Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana generated hundreds of wind damage reports. Those reports ranged from tree, powerline, structural and crop damages, along with several confirmed tornadoes. In parts of southern Illinois and southern Indiana they were hit twice. Once from the remnants of hurricane Beryl and also the derecho.   

Photo by Curt Jacobs

Several types of crop diseases can be the result of a derecho. Physical damage can range from broken off plants to wind damaged leaves. These leaves become susceptible to fungal pathogens such as leaf blights and could lead to root rot.  Soil erosion and wind can carry spores of pathogens into new areas and create new infections of plants. The timing of the storm can greatly affect the crop, especially during the pollination of corn leading to poor pollination and reduced crops. These are just some of the possible outcomes from a major storm event. 

The derecho in August of 2020 damaged approximately 14 million acres of crops. Total economic losses to agriculture were estimated at $3.8 Billion. It is too soon to estimate the damage that this storm has caused.  It will take months to realize all the damage that has happened.  If you see someone that is cleaning up storm damage, take some time and help out if you are able too. You never know when you may be the next person that needs a little extra help.