Feb 18, 2021 8:16 AM (SPRINGFIELD) Farmers are encouraged to go online and complete a brief survey by March 15, three weeks from next Monday. With about ten minutes needed to complete the survey, the information gathered will be used to assess the potential for a “farm-to-food-bank” program. The survey is the first part of a feasibility study that could expand programs and opportunities for farmers to move surplus food commodities to hunger relief agencies throughout the state. The surveyed is being sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Specialty Growers, the University of Illinois Prairie Research Institute, and the Feeding Illinois Food Bank Program. The four partners hope to develop incentives and more to overcome existing barriers to efficient flows of fresh, state-produced food to residents with as little waste as possible.