Illinois Farmers Warn Drought Is Making Soybean Production Harder: 'It's Kind of Scary'

Illinois Farmers Warn Drought Is Making Soybean Production Harder: 'It's Kind of Scary'

Central Illinois growers are reporting severe difficulty producing soybeans as a prolonged drought grips the region. Father-and-son farmers Paul and Lucas Roney told Farm Week Now they pressed on with harvest despite extreme dry conditions after a season that began with excessive spring rains that delayed planting.

"We haven't had any measurable rain since maybe the end of July, and that really hurt our soybean yields," Lucas Roney said. He described fields with widening cracks and blowing dust:

"The cracks in the ground just seem like they keep getting bigger, the dust is flying, and it's kind of scary. I'm hoping that we'll get some rain at the end of the month into November to get the soil recharged."

Paul Roney said he initially feared a total crop failure, but the pair were able to salvage some yield this season. They credited newly developed drought-tolerant hybrid seed varieties for helping preserve portions of their crop.

Broader context and economic impact

Scientists and agricultural experts say persistent warming and shifting weather patterns are increasing the frequency and intensity of droughts, heavy rains and heat waves. These extremes disrupt ecosystems and food production, strain local economies—especially in farming regions of the American Midwest—and can push up consumer food prices.

Responses and adaptation

A range of initiatives are helping farmers adapt. Nonprofits such as Transformation run retraining programs that move former factory workers into sustainable vegetable farming. Clean-energy solutions, like solar-powered water pumps, are being deployed to support irrigation while lowering emissions. Agricultural research and improved seed varieties also reduce risk, but many farmers emphasize that near-term relief still depends on timely precipitation.

While structural solutions require time and investment, the Roneys' experience highlights both the immediate vulnerability of food production to drought and the partial protection offered by seed advancements and local support.

How readers can help

Consumers can support agricultural resilience by shopping at local farmers' markets, reducing food waste, and staying informed about sustainable practices and local weather impacts. Subscribe to regional agricultural newsletters or contact local extension services for practical tips relevant to your area.