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...
Illinois study reveals another reason to save the world’s trees
All over the world, from Oregon’s old-growth forests to Queensland’s eucalyptus groves, creatures depend on trees for shelter. A new analysis from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests that as the climate destabilizes, the world’s...
Boone County and Ogle County Farm Strolls announce full farm lineups for October
OREGON, Ill. — Two beloved northern Illinois fall Master Gardener traditions are returning this October as University of Illinois Extension announces the annual Boone County Farm Stroll and the Ogle County Farm Stroll. Both events offer families, residents, and visitors the opportunity to...
Boone County Master Gardeners announce free fall programs for community
BELVIDERE, Ill.— The Boone County Master Gardeners will offer a series of free educational programs this fall at local libraries and community events. Residents are invited to learn about seeds, insects, trees, bats, and more through hands‑on, expert‑led sessions. All library programs are free,...
Local youth invited to join 4-H's new World Explorers SPIN Club, kicking off Sept. 17
ROCHELLE, Ill.— Ogle County 4‑H is inviting local youth, ages 8 to 18, to take part in a new cultural education program, the 4‑H World Explorers SPecial INterest (SPIN) Club, beginning Thursday, Sept. 17, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Flagg‑Rochelle Public Library, 619 4th Ave.,...
Youth gardeners celebrate a season of growth and achievement in Ogle County
ROCHELLE, Ill. — The 4‑H Green Thumbs have had an amazing growing season. This year’s club includes nine hardworking members who spent the season planting, tending, learning, and creating. As part of the Special Interest (SPIN) Club, these youth grew vegetables, herbs, a cheerful pollinator...
