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Events and Highlights

Tractor

Boone County Farm Stroll | Oct. 5

Embark on a self-guided adventure through Boone County’s vibrant and diverse family farms. This unique tour lets you set your own pace—there’s no official start or finish. Simply choose the farms that spark your interest and hit the road! Whether you're curious about local produce, livestock, sustainable practices, or just want a scenic day out, there's something for everyone. Rain or shine, the tour is on—so pack your boots and bring your curiosity!

black piglet

Ogle County Farm Stroll | Oct. 12

Gather the family and experience the charm of Ogle County’s agricultural community during our self-guided farm tour! On October 12, from 11 AM to 4 PM, explore a growing list of participating farms—yes, we’ve added even more this year! There’s no set route, so you can choose your own adventure. Whether you're into fresh produce, animals, or just soaking up the countryside, this rain or shine event is the perfect fall outing. We can't wait to welcome you!

medical devices to test blood sugar

Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) | Virtual

Ready to take control of your diabetes and improve your overall well-being? Join us for a FREE, evidence-based six-week virtual series designed to empower you with the tools and support you need to live healthier and feel better. Classes start Oct. 3 from 1-3:30 PM. This supportive and interactive series is tailored to meet your needs — no matter where you are in your diabetes journey. Call Jan to register: 815-544-3710.

plants on a shelf Growing with Hydroponics

Growing with Hydroponics | Belvidere | Oct 7, 1 PM

Join us for an engaging workshop led by Extension Horticulture Educator Bruce Black, where you'll discover the magic of hydroponics—a soil-free method of growing plants using water and nutrients. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early. Each participant will receive a hydroponics kit to kickstart their journey! Questions? Call Jan at 815-544-3710.

Bat Crazy

Bat Crazy | Belvidere | Oct 13 & Cherry Valley | Oct 16

Feeling batty? Come get bat-crazy with us! Join Boone County Extension Master Gardener/Master Naturalist Tenley Erickson-Ranum for a lively and educational session all about bats. Discover what these misunderstood creatures do for us, how we can help protect them, and what to do when they show up uninvited. From myths to management, Tenley will guide us through the fascinating world of bats. Belvidere, Oct 13 at 6 PM, call 815-544-3838 to register; Cherry Valley, Oct 16 at 10:30 AM, register here.
Deadly plants

Deadly Plants | Belvidere | Oct 21, 6 PM

Join Boone County Master Gardener/Master Naturalist Bobbi for a fascinating journey into the world of carnivorous and poisonous plants. Discover how these botanical predators trap their prey, where to find them in Illinois, and which toxic plants might be lurking in your own backyard or home. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a curious learner, or just love a good mystery in nature, this program will open your eyes to the darker side of the plant kingdom. Space is limited! Call the Ida Public Library to register at 815-544-3838.

News Releases
Aerial view of forest in autumn
Spotting the Invaders: Fall Workshop on Managing Woody Invasive Plants
WINNEBAGO COUNTY- Autumn brings us many gifts: cooler weather, fall traditions, changing leaves, and the perfect opportunity to manage invasives. As leaves fall and many plants go dormant, woody invasives stand out as still green and growing, making them stick out like a sore thumb. When we can...
flower bed
Dual Extension program to teach rainscaping practices in Sycamore
SYCAMORE, Ill.— Naturalists and gardeners, homeowners, conservation organizations, stormwater professionals, and landscape consultants are examples of those who can learn how landscape design and management practices reduce pollution from stormwater runoff at a workshop hosted by University of...

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