Virtual STEAM career exploration for middle schoolers
PEKIN, Ill - This summer, middle school students can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) careers during “Meet a STEAM Professional.” This program, offered by University of Illinois Extension and 4-H, will allow young people to get a behind-the-scenes look at STEAM...
Project learning never stops in 4-H
The Illinois 4-H youth development program empowers and prepares youth for success by providing opportunities for youth to learn, practice, and demonstrate skills needed for home, career, and global citizenship. Youth, organized in clubs,...
Flavor summer with backyard basil
URBANA, Ill. – Nothing says summer like enjoying freshly harvested herbs from your garden or patio.
“One of the easiest, most prolific, and flavorful herbs to grow is basil,” says Brittnay Haag, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.
While there are many...
Summer STEM professional development for educators
PEKIN, Ill. - Exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers, science inquiry, and building relationships with students are the topics being offered in the Teacher Tuesdays Summer Series for educators of all kinds. This summer, three online events, led by University of...
June Meal Tip
Now that summer’s here, there are many opportunities to get outdoor exercise in. But, sometimes you may not feel like working out, or if the weather is really nice, you may not want to spend time on exercising. There are many activities that will keep you moving but not actually feel like...
Extension to continue online events, 4-H shows in July
URBANA, Ill. – As the state of Illinois moves into Phase 3 of the coronavirus Restore Illinois plan, University of Illinois Extension continues to provide research-based educational programs for families, farmers, and businesses in formats that support public health and safety priorities....
Are murder hornets here in Illinois; not likely
URBANA, Ill. - There has been a recent surge of interest in an invasive insect pest, the Asian Giant Hornet (AGH), or Vespa mandarinia. AGHs are the largest hornets in the world and are identifiable by their size and distinct bright yellow or orange heads. While well known for their large...
Farmers struggle with processing plant closures; What COVID-19 means for your dinner table
URBANA, Ill. – Headlines about dairy farms dumping milk and livestock being euthanized are a sharp contrast to empty meat cases. The novel coronavirus outbreak has disrupted the nation’s food supply chain, resulting in increased prices for panicked shoppers and major losses for Illinois farmers...
Respect electricity’s potential wrath
May is Electrical Safety Month
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Along with National Strawberry Month and National Barbecue Month, May heralds in a more serious observance: Electrical Safety Month. Electricity can be extremely dangerous, yet people rarely spend time considering...
Let's Talk Money webinars encourage financial dialogue
When it comes to talking about money, a lack of financial knowledge and the uneasiness of discussing sensitive issues keeps some people silent and risks the financial health of many families.
Let's Talk Money is a free 8-week online series offered by...
Worm digestion helps feed soil
Vermicompost is the nutrient rich by-product of worm digestion and is a super food for our soils. University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Austin Little will demonstrate how to build a...
Change the way you see salad: meals, sides and desserts
Celebrate National Salad Month with Tips from U of I Extension
Whether it’s your main entrée, side dish or even dessert, salads can be an easy, nourishing staple in your household’s meal plan.
“For many people, salads may not seem exciting or enticing,” says...
Familiar tale: Victims of emerald ash borer and other exotic pests
URBANA, Ill. – The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) has plagued native ash trees in Illinois since 2006. This pest was first introduced in 2002 around the Detroit area and rapidly spread across Michigan and Indiana to infect most of Illinois today....
Use native prairie plants in the home landscape
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois is known as the “Prairie State” and has several native prairie plants. These plants are good options to include in the landscape because they evolved with the climate, soils, and pathogens in this habitat for thousands of years.
Native prairie plant species...
Revive your compost pile after winter
URBANA, Ill. – If you haven’t touched your compost bin or pile all winter, don’t worry, you are not alone! ...