Ogle County 4-H Achievement Day winners named
OREGON, Ill.— Ogle County 4-H’ers were recognized for excellence in 4-H project work at the recent county 4-H Achievement Celebration. Held October 19 at the Pinecrest Grove Theatre, the program featured the presentation of numerous awards, including the “County Project Honor Award.”An...
Give the gift of convenience and support local ag education this holiday season
OREGON, Ill.— Struggling to find the perfect gift for someone who has everything? Looking for a quick and delicious meal solution for yourself during the busy holiday season? University of Illinois Extension has you covered—with a tasty and thoughtful option that also supports local agricultural...
Lost or leading the way? Rare birds may signal shifting migration routes
On a 2009 hike in the Huachuca Mountains of southeastern Arizona, a group of birders heard an otherworldly, ethereal bird song floating, flute-like, through the canyon. The hikers identified the singer as a brown-backed solitaire, recognizing...
Master Naturalists connect through community and conservation at annual conference
OGLESBY, Ill. — Of all the state parks in Illinois, Starved Rock has the most visitors, and this October, it also welcomed University of Illinois Extension’s Master Naturalists to explore and learn together. Against a backdrop of migrating pelicans floating in the Illinois River at the base of...
Time change raises risk of driver collisions with wildlife
URBANA, Ill. — This Sunday at 2 a.m. Central Standard Time, daylight saving time will end, with clocks set back one hour. One of the most noticeable effects of “falling back” is that people will find themselves driving home from work or for after-school activities as the sun sets, putting them...
2025 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 19, in the Pinecrest Grove Theatre.Top county honors went to 4-H teens Shelby Harbaugh, Chana, and David Wehler, Leaf River. Harbaugh, Hub Hickory...
Grants to support learning through Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. —Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) is a go-to resource for teachers wanting to help students grow connections to agriculture. This week, local programs received funding to continue classroom lessons thanks to IAA Foundation grants. Eighty ag literacy...
University of Illinois Extension responds to rising food access needs
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension is responding to increased demand for food assistance amid the ongoing government shutdown and SNAP benefit disruptions. Publicly available resources are being shared by Extension to help Illinois...
Nine new invasive species regulated in Illinois with expansion of Exotic Weeds Act
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The forests and prairies of Illinois have a new line of defense against harmful non-native plants. On Oct. 1, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources added nine more invasive plants to the list of species that are illegal to buy,...
Earn Your Certified Food Protection Manager Credential
FREEPORT, Ill. — Are you currently working in the food industry or hoping to start a career in food service? Take the next step by becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)—a credential required by the Illinois Department of Public Health for managers...
Water trees wisely to beat winter woes
URBANA, Ill. — As autumn colors emerge, it may seem that trees are preparing for rest. However, when fall brings dry conditions instead of seasonal rains, trees can enter winter under stress. Fall droughts can be subtle but have lasting impacts. With timely care, trees can weather dry spells and...
Ogle County Farm Stroll draws crowds, celebrates local agriculture
OREGON, Ill. – On Sunday, October 12, the 2025 Ogle County Farm Stroll invited the public to explore the heart of local agriculture, with ten farms across the county opening their gates for a day of education, connection, and countryside charm. Participating farms included Barnhart's Stone...
Recycle pumpkins with a smash at Illinois Extension fall community composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Whether picking out pumpkins from a field or carving fun faces for jack-o'-lanterns with friends, pumpkins naturally give off fall vibes. But what happens when they start to decay on the porch or countertop, and it’s time to say goodbye? Where do they go? Many think...
Youth handlers shine at 2025 4-H state dog show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Dog Show was held on Oct. 4 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. Sixty-six 4-H members represented their home counties across Illinois in 118 individual runs made in partnership with their canine companion. Members who received a qualifying score at...
