Local ag feels impact of virus

During these uncertain times, agriculture is not immune to the impacts – even at the local level.

Several meetings and conferences have been postponed or cancelled. Also, different ag businesses and cooperatives have started to announced safety protocols with the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

This week’s McLean County Chamber of Commerce Ag Awareness Breakfast is not happening as the chamber announced the cancellation of many of its events through early April. The Prairie Central FFA Hog Roast and Auction fundraiser set for Thursday has been postponed while the Heartland FFA Alumni auction which was supposed to take place over the weekend in Normal was cancelled.

Local grain elevators have shared information online, with some encouraging customers to call their local office before conducting any business. One elevator put a message out to those visiting for truck, rail container or wind component loading and unloading, urging drivers to stay in their cabs when possible.

Some ag retailers are also starting to take precautionary measures to prevent spread of coronavirus in order to stay safe, such as limiting face-to-face meetings and restricting visitors.