When Bomke’s Patch first opened its doors in 2009, owner Cathy Bomke was elated to sell 100 Christmas trees. Last year, the family-run business sold close to 1,000.

As we make our way into November, it’s easy as a sportsman to be drawn into the urgent feelings of a progressing archery deer season, the impending firearms season soon to come or the call of the Canada geese as they make their way down from the north to winter on the lakes and in the fields. What we tend to forget is the opening of multiple upland game seasons and the simple joys they bring. If your pursuit of big game is starting to get under your skin, maybe it’s time to change things up a bit.

If you’ve ever driven across Illinois, you know that the state is packed with farms. Though much of Illinois’ land is covered in corn and soybeans, it also produces an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables – primarily sold at farmers’ markets, and there may be one close to you.

Illinois has the third largest concentration of farmers’ markets in the United States. As an agricultural powerhouse, our state provides many opportunities for those in large- and small-scale agriculture to sell their goods and help provide consumers with the choices they demand.

One of the joys of living in Illinois is the exceptional growing conditions for lawns, gardens and commodities. The great soil, moderate temperatures and adequate water resources of our state have made Illinois a great place to grow the fruits and vegetables we all enjoy. With the gradual rise in temperatures, homeowners and gardening enthusiasts are starting to get outdoors and prepare their lawns and gardens for the upcoming summer.