Hundreds of gardens throughout Illinois are supported by Extension Master Gardener volunteers, Master Naturalist volunteers, and Extension educators, usually in partnership with local community organizations. Some gardens are used to demonstrate research-based gardening practices and to teach the public about gardening, while others are used to grow food for donation to local food banks and pantries, to provide a restorative place for children or adults with targeted needs, or to provide environmental benefits such as pollinator support, stormwater management, or increased biodiversity.

There are 15 Extension-supported gardens in Boone, DeKalb and Ogle Counties, with seven of them growing produce for donation to local food banks and pantries. In 2024, 3,824 pounds of produce was donated (value $6,768). Find gardens in your community using the search box below.