BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The Illinois Soybean Association recognized two Pike County farmers Sunday at its annual meeting.
Mark Sprague of Hull was presented with the 2011 Excellence in Environmental Stewardship Award, and Philip Bradshaw of Griggsville is the state’s nominee for the American Soybean Association Meritorious Service Award.
Bradshaw was one of four industry leaders nominated for national recognition for their efforts.
Bradshaw is the immediate past chairman for the United Soybean Board, WISHH (World Initiative for Soy in Human Health) and the World Soy Foundation. He also serves QUALISOY and the U.S. Soybean Export Council and currently is vice chairman for the United States Farmers and Ranchers Alliance.
"Phil has always been seen as an outstanding leader for Illinois agriculture. His knowledge and experience with soybean issues are unparalleled," said Ron Moore, 2010-11 ISA chairman and a soybean farmer from Roseville. "Phil has the ability to encourage people to perform at their highest levels for the betterment of our industry. Phil has been the right leader at the right time for all of agriculture."
Bradshaw is a past chairman of the Illinois Soybean Program Operating Board, Illinois Pork Producers Association and the United States Animal Health Association. He and his son farm about 900 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat and raise hogs.
"Mark Sprague is a true conservationist," said Rob Shaffer, ISA director and soybean farmer from El Paso. "Mark uses terraces and filter strips to conserve rich Illinois soil. By implementing these practices, he reduces chemical and fertilizer runoff out of local and national watersheds and provides excellent places for wildlife to nest."
Sprague, an ISA director and past Soy Leader, also is active in the Pike County Farm Bureau and Waterways Council.
ISA is the statewide organization for Illinois soybean growers. The farmers on its board administer soybean checkoff funds to support research, promotions and educational programs designed to increase demand for Illinois soybeans and administer legislation and membership programs.
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