Do you enjoy gardening but worry about wildlife destroying it? Boone County Master Gardener interns Tenley Erickson-Ranum and Brianne Ambrose will explore ways to enjoy wildlife without the destruction during this program. Register here or call the library at 815-332-5161. Registration closes March 26 at 6 pm for ages 18 and up.  The program is free to attend.

Get ready for an inspiring half-day event brought to you by the Master Gardeners of Carroll, Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties. Choose from engaging sessions on landscape design, the magic of versatile lavender, living harmoniously with wildlife, growing African violets, exploring new vegetables, and so much more. Don't miss our keynote speaker, Kim Hartmann, as she unveils the secrets to shade-loving plants. Register here!

SAVE THE DATE! NatureFest is on Sat., April 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Russell Woods Forest Preserve, located one mile west of Genoa on state route 72. NatureFest focuses on families with elementary-aged children, but everyone is welcome! Extension staff and Master Naturalist volunteers work together to present multiple hands-on learning activities throughout the forest. Hosted by Extension, DeKalb County Forest Preserve, and the DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District. Check back for more information. 

What is a watershed? Why should you care? A watershed provides the community with fresh drinking water, recreational opportunities, and other vital resources. Extension Watershed Outreach Associate Nicole Haverback will lead a discussion on how communities in and around Boone County can take care of the water we interact with daily and the importance of watersheds. Registration is required by April 28. There is a $5 program fee. 

Learn more about the nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as bird flu. University of Illinois scientists, experts, and Extension specialists weigh in on bird flu’s impact and discuss safety recommendations to help prevent further spread. 

We are excited that 4-H Camp Registration is Open! We will again be attending Rock River Christian Camp in Polo, Illinois. Camp is open to all youth ages 8-14 by June 8. You do not have to be in 4-H to attend. The dates have been set for Sunday, June 8 - Thursday, June 12, 2025.