By Andi Anderson
Iowa corn farmers are set to participate in important elections to choose members of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB). Since 1978, farmers have selected fellow producers to serve on the board, which manages funds generated through the corn checkoff program. These funds support activities that benefit the corn industry.
The upcoming elections will take place in USDA crop reporting districts 1, 3, 6, and 8. Farmers in these regions will vote to elect directors who will represent their interests on the ICPB. The board plays a key role in deciding how funds are used for market development, research, and educational programs related to corn farming.
Voting will take place on July 14, 2026, during normal business hours at local county ISU Extension offices. Farmers who are unable to attend in person have the option to vote by absentee ballot. To receive an absentee ballot, farmers must request one by June 15 by contacting the Iowa Corn office or visiting the official website. Completed ballots must be submitted or postmarked by July 14. Election results will be announced publicly on July 17.
To be eligible to vote, individuals must have produced and marketed at least 250 bushels of corn in Iowa during the previous marketing year. This ensures that voters are active participants in the corn industry.
The list of candidates includes farmers from different counties across the four districts. In District 1, candidates are John Schott from Pocahontas County and Gina White from Clay County. District 3 features Jerry Keleher from Clayton County and Jason Orr from Buchanan County. In District 6, candidates include James “Jay” Buline from Johnson County and Lance Lillibridge from Benton County. District 8 candidates are Blake Reynolds from Warren County and Rob Vos from Marion County.
These elections are important for shaping the future of Iowa’s corn industry. By participating, farmers help guide decisions that support research, develop new uses for corn, and expand both domestic and international markets.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Corn