Learn how to extend the longevity of garden tools with proper care
MONTICELLO, Ill. – Do garden shovels need to be sharpened? How should loppers be cleaned? What needs considered when purchasing pruners? Get the answer to these and more at University of Illinois Extension’s Garden Tool Maintenance...
Youth to learn about safety and make project at woodworking workshop
MONTICELLO, Ill. – There is nothing quite like the sense of accomplishment you get from creating something from start to finish. At 4-H Woodworking Workshop with Benchworx, youth get to roll up their sleeves, put on their safety glasses, and create their very own woodworking project.
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Meet local law enforcement and firefighters at free family fun day
FARMER CITY, Ill. – After an unusually harsh winter, kids and adults alike are anxious to get outside. Here is a chance to get the whole family outside for a day of basketball, bike safety checks, STEM activities, and pedal cart courses all while getting to know local law enforcement and...
Beautify your landscape with plants from the annual Master Gardener Plant Sale
DECATUR, Ill. – Warming temperatures signal that it’s almost time to get your hands in the dirt. Prepare for garden and landscape plantings with a visit to the Master Gardener Plant Sale hosted by University of Illinois Extension.
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Test field scouting skills with high school Crop Scouting Competition
URBANA, Ill. – A farmer knowing how corn or soybean crops are progressing or being able to identify an insect can mean the difference between a profitable harvest and a bad year. The youth Illinois Crop Scouting Competition puts teams of agriculture students to the test. This hands-on contest in...
Area 4-H members place in the top five at Horse Judging Contest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension hosted the annual All-Youth Horse Judging Contest during the Illinois Horse Fair on March 5 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
Several 4-H members from DeWitt and Macon...
Robotics team moves on to compete at world championship event in Texas
DECATUR, Ill. — It’s been a record-setting year for 4-H Scream’s FIRST(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Tech Challenge Team, Super SCREAM Bros. Their performance at the Central-Southern...
Learn the art of Nature Journaling at the Carolyn Mason Education Day
DECATUR, Ill. — Spending time outside and connecting with nature can positively affect our well-being. Taking a break from technology and observing what is around us may relieve stress. The Carolyn Mason Education Day hosted by ...
Make your own herb garden at free 4-H event
MANSFIELD, Ill. – Growing herbs is a great way to introduce youth to gardening. Many herbs require very little care. Adding herbs to a recipe takes it to a new level. Fresh herbs take those recipes to the next level. Have them readily available by planting an indoor herb garden. At 4-H Indoor...
Prime-Time Health program unlocks the mystery of leading a healthier lifestyle
CLINTON, Ill. — Every day, people find themselves trying to understand what it takes to live a more healthy life. The amount of information is overwhelming and piecing it all together is a daunting task. University of Illinois Extension in...
Attract more butterflies to your garden with tips from an expert
MONTICELLO, Ill. – Gardeners looking to create a butterfly haven can pick up helpful tips from entomologist Dr. Michael Jeffords. This co-author of Butterflies of Illinois: A Field Guide, will be the keynote speaker at Gardeners’ Day on April 2 in Monticello. Dr. Michael Jeffords is a retired...
Experience the world of robotics with free 4-H event
MANSFIELD, Ill. – The technology of robotics has filtered into our workplaces and homes. There is no doubt that robotics has the potential to affect positive change, and our youth need to understand what this means for their future.
“Get a glimpse into the world of Robotics,” says 4-H...
Get growing this summer at the Monticello area organic community garden
MONTICELLO, Ill. – Want to grow a vegetable garden but lack the space or equipment to create one? A community garden may be the answer to your problem. Applications are now available for the 2022 growing season at The Monticello Area Community Garden. Dig in this summer and grow your favorite...
4-H to host family fun activity at Allerton Park's A Shamrockin' GLOW
MONTICELLO, Ill. – Spring is almost here. What better way to enjoy the changing season than a family fun night at Allerton Park? GLOW is getting painted green for St. Patrick’s Day and 4-H is joining in on the fun.
Come join...
Keep jumping worms from damaging lawns, gardens, natural areas
URBANA, Ill. – A new threat is invading Illinois. Jumping worms attack gardens, lawns, and natural areas with devastating results.
Illinois Extension forestry research specialist Chris Evans says the worms are voracious eaters that decrease soil quality and reduce organic matter....
Be ready for severe weather before the sirens go off
URBANA, Ill. – Weather can change from blue skies to ominous clouds in an instant in Illinois. When the wail of an alert siren is heard, it’s a warning sign that should not be ignored.
Illinois Severe Weather Preparedness Week is Feb. 28 to March 4. The early awareness allows ...
Build confidence in fruit tree pruning with free educational workshop
CLINTON, Ill. – Want to make an apple or peach pie, but your fruit tree isn’t bearing enough fruit? Pruning may be the answer. Pruning can improve tree vigor, encourage flower and fruit production, and attain the desired shape. Learn about this and more in a hands-on workshop hosted by...
