On Thursday, March 28th, State Senator Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) joined Lanark farmer Lou Lamoreux in Bloomington as Lamoreux was recognized as a 2024 Master Farmer by Prairie Farmer Magazine. Winners are recognized for exceptional agricultural production skills, commitment to family, and service to the community.
“Of the thousands of farmers in Illinois, only four are chosen annually for this coveted award,” said Chesney. “Lou is most deserving of this award because he embodies the very spirit of what it means to be a master farmer.”
In addition to feeding 2,250 head of fat cattle, running a 250-head cow heard, and farming 1,900 acres of corn, soybeans, pasture, wheat, and rye, Lamoreux has served on the Illinois Corn and Illinois Beef Association Boards and as a member of the Carrol County Board. He also serves as the Chairman of Senator Chesney’s Agriculture Advisory Committee, a group of more than 30 farming and agribusiness leaders from the seven counties that comprise the 45th Senate District in Northwest Illinois.
“It was an honor to be recognized for my contributions to the farming industry,” said Lamoreux. “There are so many farmers who have dedicated their lives to putting food on people’s tables, and it is extremely humbling to receive this special award.”
In his role as Chair of Senator Chesney’s Agriculture Advisory Committee, he helps with member recruitment and assists with the creation of agenda topics for discussion at the group’s 3-4 annual meetings.
“Lou Lamoreux is a respected leader in this region and has chaired my Agriculture Advisory Committee very well for the last six years,” said Chesney. “It was a privilege to be with Lou and his wife Sue as he was recognized for his immeasurable contribution to Illinois’ top economic driver- agriculture.”