Welcome to the farm

Stewart Farms is a family-owned and operated grain farm headquartered in Yorkville, Illinois.

The farm was started more than 80 years ago by the late Robert M. Stewart and his wife Elaine, who originally purchased the main homestead where the farm is still based.

The farm is operated by brothers Bob and Brad Stewart, along with their father, Craig. Craig has more than 60 years of experience in farming in the area and helped to expand the farming operations to Piatt and DeWitt counties in the late ‘00s alongside his sons.

Bob and Brad both received degrees in Agricultural Economics from the University of Illinois. Before returning to the farm, Bob and Brad had off-farm careers in consulting and logistics, respectively. On the farm today, they are assisted by a dedicated group of hard-working employees and their families.

We continue to adapt our operation to the changes in production agriculture.  We are continuing to look for innovative ways to improve our operation. 

  • Experiment with different seed varieties, tillage techniques, and seeding methods to determine the best practices.

  • Seek knowledge through training programs, interaction with other producers, and involvement with agribusinesses.

Our Farming Philosophy

Cutting-Edge Technology

We utilize technology to maximize our productivity and monitor our progress.

  • Yield monitors collect and analyze crop data—since 1996.

  • All field operations are tracked with GPS-based records.

  • Automatic steering systems guide machinery through the field with +/-1 inch accuracy, reducing overlap in field operations and creating controlled-traffic patterns in fields. 

Environmental Stewardship

We are concerned about the environment, and we utilize farming practices to protect the land we farm for generations to come.

  • Crop protection decisions utilize IPM (integrated pest management) practices, limiting the use of chemicals.

  • Owners and applicators receive training in the proper handling of pesticides.

  • Conservation tillage techniques limit soil erosion.

  • Tracked equipment reduces soil compaction.

Community Involvement

Our family is involved with our local community and farm organizations. 

  • Kendall-Grundy Farm Bureau

  • Kendall County 4-H

  • Illinois Ag Leadership Program

  • Cross Lutheran Church & School

  • Au Sable Grove Church

  • University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences