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New IL Corn president sets priorities

The new president of the Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) says farmer profitability is at the top of the organization’s priority list.

Garrett Hawkins, who grows corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa in Monroe County, tells Brownfield…

“Currently we are experiencing a recession in the economy.”  He says, “You know, basic economics is supply, demand equals price. And right now, we have a lot of supply, so our focus is to create demand.”

He says the group plans to push for increased ethanol usage through the Next Generation Fuels Act in the next Congress.

“We have a product that is easily manufactured, easily transported.”  He says, “It’s here today. It’s good for the environment. You know, we want to explore more future uses for ethanol.”

Hawkins says trade opportunities can help as well.

“When trade works, the world wins.”  He says, “We have to make sure we get along with our neighbors so they can buy our products and we can buy theirs.”

Hawkins says the group also plans to continue its lobbying efforts for a new five-year farm bill.  He’ll serve a one-year term as ICGA’s president.

Hawkins spoke with Brownfield at the organization’s annual meeting in Bloomington, IL.

AUDIO: Garrett Hawkins – ICGA president