Wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects continue to expand across Illinois, creating new considerations for farmland owners and rural communities. This session will provide a broad overview of current trends in renewable energy development, the economic and policy factors behind this growth, and the ways these projects can influence agricultural land use.

Participants will learn about key topics farmland owners commonly encounter when approached about energy development and better understand how the rise of renewable energy is shaping the agricultural landscape in Illinois and what it may mean for the future of farmland.

Bill Bodine is the Director of Business and Regulatory Affairs in the Illinois Farm Bureau Governmental Affairs and Commodities Division. Bill and his team manage issues associated with business regulation and property rights, utilities and 
energy, renewable fuels, transportation and infrastructure, and industry affairs. He joined Illinois Farm Bureau in August 2003 and has served in several roles with the organization.