Illinois military and veterans who farm can use special logo

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois Department of Agriculture is starting a new program to allow farmers who are veterans or still serving in the military to use a special logo to market their products.

The department said Thursday that farmers, ranchers and other agricultural producers who qualify can use the Homegrown by Heroes logo on packaging, websites, signs and on social media to set their products apart.

Agriculture Department Director Raymond Poe said the program is intended to help veterans and people still in the military pursue second careers in agriculture.

To be eligible, veterans will need to provide proof of service, a letter of support from a commanding officer and must own at least 50 percent of the operation.

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Online: Farmer Veteran Coalition: www.farmvetco.org/homegrown-by-heroes/