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Abstract
Agriculture in Illinois is already impacted by climate change, and it will continue to be impacted by future changes. This report describes historical changes in Illinois's average annual and seasonal temperature, precipitation, vapor pressure deficit, and growing season length. It also presents the projected changes in these climate metrics by the mid- and late-twenty-first century. Impacts on agriculture include increased risk of drought, increased prevalence of livestock heat stress, changes in pest and disease pressures, and vulnerabilities for fruit and vegetable crops. The report provides information on adaptation options for addressing these challenges on Illinois farms.