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...
Master Showmanship contest held at the Ogle County 4-H Fair
OREGON, Ill.— The 2026 Ogle County 4-H Senior Master Showman winner was Ayden Alderks of Ogle Jolly 4-H Club! The runner-up was Grady Poliska, Ogle Jolly 4-H Club. Other senior participants ages 14-18 included Addison Yordy, Leaf River Busy Beavers 4-H Club; Boone Alderks, Carefree 4-H Club...
4-H volunteers honored for exceptional service
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois 4-H volunteers empower and prepare youth for success as the program relies on its more than 15,000 volunteers to fill key leadership and mentoring roles. Longtime volunteers and former staff members were recently...
Back by popular demand, freezer meal fundraiser for the Ag in the Classroom program is underway
OREGON, Ill. — Have you been searching for a way to make dinner preparation simple? Freezer meals are back by popular demand. It's time to stock your freezer. We have a great opportunity for you to take a night off from cooking and support a great program — Ogle-Carroll Agriculture in the...
Learn the latest research during Orr Beef Research Center Field Day
BAYLIS, Ill. — Experts from the University of Illinois will lead discussions addressing research, current topics, and situations producers are facing on-farm during the annual Orr Beef Research Center Field Day. This year’s event will take place at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at the new Ag...
Big Thunder Pavilion: preserving Potawatomi legacy through landscape, art, and community stewardship
BELVIDERE, Ill. — Big Thunder Pavilion is a monument site in Belvidere, Boone County, IL, which was donated to the Boone County Conservation District (BCCD) by the late Belvidere resident and businessman, Jack Wolf. It is located at Big Thunder Blvd. and Wolf Rd., across from Rock Valley College...
University of Illinois Extension offers Diabetes 101 educational series
FREEPORT, Ill.--- Diabetes touches millions of lives every day. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for years, or are supporting a loved one, you’re not alone. With the right information and support, diabetes can be managed, and healthy living...
Extension launches Health and Community Wellness, Center to strengthen Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension is launching its new Health and Community Wellness (HCW) program area to better meet the needs of Illinois residents as communities and families face challenges related to health, food and nutrition, family relationships, and financial well-being....
Envisioning the next 150 years of crop research with the Alma Mater Plots
URBANA, Ill. — A couple of miles south of the main quad at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a remarkable agricultural experiment is taking shape. The so-called Alma Mater Plots are unique in their setup — with 64 one-acre plots, each...
