Thoren Farms Named Illinois Beef Association Environmental Steward of the Year

Greg and Janis Thoren earned the honor for their conservation-minded approach to raising cattle and crops

STOCKTON, Ill. (RFD News) — Protecting natural resources and improving land stewardship are top priorities at Thoren Farms, a commitment that recently earned the operation statewide recognition.

Greg and Janis Thoren were named the 2026 Illinois Beef Association Environmental Steward of the Year for their regenerative farming and conservation efforts.

The award recognizes beef producers who demonstrate outstanding stewardship of natural resources while maintaining productive farming operations.

Thoren Farms was honored during the Illinois Beef Association’s annual meeting in Springfield.

Related Stories
The award-winning pitmaster discusses choosing the right beef cuts, managing grill heat and building confidence behind the grill.
The campaign helps support students attending National FFA Convention while funding local chapters and scholarship opportunities.
Trey Myers and T. Wayne Williams discuss lessons learned on the road and what continues inspiring students across the country.
State agriculture leaders say the new “Nine Lakes of East Tennessee” designation could boost tourism and industry investment.
For more than 70 years, The Pancake Shop has served sausage supplied by the Hawthorn family’s meat operation.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Illinois FFA President Natalie Pratt reflects on a year serving members across the state and plans for the state’s upcoming conference.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture’s annual event focused on herd management, cattle markets, and the future of the beef industry.
Dry weather and limited freeze damage are helping produce some of the best blueberry quality growers have seen in years.
The Louisiana farm combines fresh produce and agricultural education for families across the state.
LSU economist Dr. Michael Deliberto says fewer planted acres could tighten supplies and support prices for producers.
The culinary instructor and cookbook author discussed protein trends, family meal value and new dairy products appearing in stores.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Follow Aumann Auctions coast to coast on a road trip adventure! Each episode of “Old Iron Adventures” highlights the challenges of hosting an auction. Plus, get behind-the-scenes looks, history lessons & meet a cast of very interesting characters along the way!
Washington farmers grow more than 300 different crops and raise a variety of different animals, and Washington is also home to some of the greatest culinary experiences in America. Whether inside the kitchen or out in the field, at the end of the day, it’s all about the food!