DeKalb County 4-H invites community to share memories and celebrate 100 years
SYCAMORE, Ill. — For 100 years, DeKalb County 4-H has helped young people learn by doing, develop leadership skills, and get involved in their communities. As University of Illinois Extension prepares to celebrate this milestone, current and former 4-H members, families, volunteers, and...
2026 Ogle County 4-H Achievement Celebration winners
OREGON, Ill.— Ogle County’s top 4-H members and clubs were honored for outstanding achievement at a special program held Sunday, October 18, at the Pinecrest Grove Theatre in Mount Morris.Top county honors went to 4-H teens Allissa Martin, Oregon, and Immanuel Arellano, Leaf River....
Boone County Master Gardeners offer holiday workshop: Gifts from the Garden
BELVIDERE, Ill. — Add a touch of natural magic to your holiday season with Gifts from the Garden: Potpourri and Simmer Pots, a hands-on workshop offered by the Boone County Master Gardeners.The program will take place Saturday, November 21, from 10 to 11 a.m. at...
Students explore many sides of agriculture at Ag Awareness Day
OREGON, Ill.— On September 3 and 4, 368 students from seven area schools gathered at the Ogle County Fairgrounds for Ag Awareness Day, an educational event designed to introduce students to the different aspects of agriculture and its importance in everyday life. Hosted by University...
Grant dollars support Ogle and Carroll youth through Agriculture in the Classroom
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) is helping teachers in Ogle and Carroll counties bring agriculture to life for students across the state through IAA Foundation grants, which support hands-on lessons, teacher resources and agricultural literacy programs in Illinois schools....
Recycle pumpkin season with a smash at Illinois Extension composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Like the changing of the leaves, fall can seem fleeting. Enjoy seasonal vibes — until the porch pumpkins start to decay. When that happens, where do the pumpkins go?“Many do not realize that a thrown-away pumpkin does not break down and disappear on its own without leaving...
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for the 2026-27 hunting season
URBANA, Ill. – A popular program returns for its fifth season to help feed neighbors in need. Hunters Feeding Illinois connects hunters, meat processors, and food pantries to bring lean protein to local residents and families, providing a unique pathway to address and improve food insecurity....
Forest Quest offers youth school's out adventure in nature during Thanksgiving week
GENOA, Ill. — Looking for an engaging way for kids to spend their days off school during Thanksgiving week? University of Illinois Extension and the DeKalb County Forest Preserve District are teaming up to offer Forest Quest, a hands-on nature day camp for youth ages 7 to 11....
Register now for the virtural Stromwater Leadership Summit returning October 29
The summit is designed to help participants build connections, strengthen professional networks, and discover tools and resources to address regionally significant water issues. Topics will include flooding, sewer capacity, local water planning, and the challenges associated with impervious...
Illinois 4-H'ers excel in 2026 state shooting sports competitions
URBANA, Ill. — A total of 167 Illinois 4-H youth recently showcased their marksmanship skills in statewide competitions across the shooting sports disciplines of rifle, archery, pistol, and shotgun. These events serve as culminating experiences where participants can measure the progress they...
Youth-led initiative creates local action, statewide change
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois 4-H youth across the state came together to make a difference in their communities through the annual Illinois 4-H Can Make a Difference Food Drive, held Aug. 14-...
Repot that plant while tuning in to Extension’s Gardening in the Air virtual gardening sessions
URBANA, Ill. — Repotting that houseplant has been on your to-do list, so add in some background gardening talk to set the tone for a fall Saturday. Join Extension on Oct. 24 for the Gardening in the Air virtual symposium. Tune in to the presentations from indoors, outdoors, or while...
Northern Illinois 4-H Camp seeks youth leaders to join 2027 Camp Counselor Team
ELIZABETH, Ill. – Northern Illinois 4-H is recruiting motivated and enthusiastic youth to serve as camp counselors for the 2027 Northern Illinois 4-H Camp, scheduled for June 6-10, 2027, at Rock River Christian Camp in Polo, Illinois.Becoming a 4-H Camp Counselor gives...
Asian copperleaf found in a second Illinois county
FREEPORT, Ill. – Asian copperleaf, an emerging weed of concern in the Midwest, has now been confirmed in a second Illinois county. Following its initial discovery in Stephenson County during harvest in 2025, a newly confirmed population in Carroll County suggests that this...
Learn what research says about everyday health challenges
URBANA, Ill. — With health information available at the click of a button, finding trustworthy, evidence-based resources can be challenging. As misinformation continues to spread across digital platforms, access to accurate health guidance is increasingly important. In response, educators,...
New Sunflower Showmanship brings livestock exhibit experience to more youth
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois 4-H was honored to partner with Special Olympics of Illinois - Region H, the Illinois State Fair, and Illinois FFA to expand access to participation in livestock shows during the 2026 Illinois State Fair. In the new Sunflower Showmanship program, Special Olympics...
