CANASTOTA -- Earlier this year, Madison County, through the efforts of the Agricultural Economic Development Program, was awarded a $99,990 grant by the U.S Department of Agriculture Rural Development.

What started as the soil erosion service during the dustbowl days of the thirties has evolved over the years into an important part of the U.S. department of agriculture.

The "incredible roller coaster ride" of Illinois agriculture in the past year and future twists and turns will be addressed in a series of meetings throughout Illinois in December, sponsored by University of Illinois Extension. Coles County producers and landowners will hear from several perspectives during the day's program.

(AP:CHICAGO) Agriculture futures were mixed Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade. Wheat for December delivery was unchanged at $5.0975 a bushel; December corn lost 0.25 cent to $3.325 a bushel; December oats gained 4.5 cents to $2.065 a bushel; and January soybeans fell 19 cents to $8.27 a bushel.

By The Associated Press CHICAGO (AP) -- Agriculture futures were mixed Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade.

Agriculture futures trade mixed on the CBOT

State Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks says he plans to decide in five or six weeks if he will run for governor in 2010.

Agriculture futures climbed in midday trading Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade.Wheat for December delivery added 8.25 cents to $5.180

By The Associated Press CHICAGO (AP) -- Agriculture futures climbed in midday trading Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade.

Agriculture futures climbed in midday trading Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade.