Ogle and Carroll County students discover how many farmers it takes to make a Tootsie Roll
OREGON, Ill.— Students across Ogle and Carroll Counties learned how many farmers are behind one of America's most iconic candies. By the end of their lesson, students discovered that it takes at least five different types of farmers to produce all the ingredients for a Tootsie Roll! ...
Succession Planning Workshop offered by Illinois Extension
LENA, Ill.-- Succession planning is essential for farm families but is often overlooked. To help farm families start or continue this process, University of Illinois Extension will offer Starting the Conversation: Farm Succession Planning Strategies and Resources for Illinois Farm Families...
Illinois Extension offers free life-skills series to promote wellness across generations
OREGON, Ill.— As people age, they face various challenges affecting their cognitive abilities, social participation, and overall health. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that includes healthcare, social support, and financial planning to ensure a dignified and fulfilling...
Boone County Master Gardeners to offer free gardening programs at Ida Public Library
BELVIDERE, Ill.— The Boone County Master Gardeners invite community members to grow their gardening knowledge this spring through free educational programs offered at the Ida Public Library, 320 N. State Street, Belvidere. Space is limited. Reserve your spot by calling the library at 815‑544‑...
Launch your future at 4-H U: a career and college exploration event for grades 9-12
BELVIDERE, Ill.—Not sure what to do after high school? Let Extension help you. The 4-H U: Dream. Plan. Do. in-person program series is designed for youth going into grades 9–12 as of August 2026 and is open to the public. Through four engaging sessions, participants will explore career pathways...
Celebrate spring’s arrival with new Illinois Extension Four Seasons Gardening webinars
URBANA, Ill. — Springtime brings visions of beautiful butterfly gardens and dreams of delicious vegetable varieties growing in a garden or porch pots outside the window.Garden planning and the countdown to a new growing season continue with two new webinars...
Microwave frying can help lower oil content for healthier French fries
URBANA, Ill. — Fried foods are popular with consumers, but their high fat content can contribute to health challenges like obesity and hypertension. If the food industry can offer lower-fat options of similar quality, people can more easily make health-conscious food choices.Researchers...
CHS Rochelle supports Ogle County 4-H
OREGON, Ill.—CHS Ethanol is committed to giving back to the communities it serves, and when identifying local organizations to support, Ogle County 4-H aligned perfectly with that mission. When Samantha Zaccaria of CHS connected with University of Illinois Extension Program Coordinator Jodi...
See safety in action at Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week Kickoff event in Urbana
URBANA, Ill. — What began as an idea from agricultural industry groups to help ensure safety in the workplace has now become a nationwide movement. Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week takes place March 30 through April 6, and the 2026 Illinois kickoff...
Registration open for Wild Neighbors: Coyotes program in Belvidere on March 21
BELVIDERE, Ill.—University of Illinois Extension Educator Peggy Anesi will be offering a free educational program on coyotes Saturday, March 21, at 9:00 a.m. at the Boone County Conservation District, 603 Appleton Road. “Coyote families are welcoming their new offspring in March, so it’s a...
Ogle County 4-H Penny Carnival set for March 7
OREGON, Ill.—Looking for a fun, inexpensive way to spend a Saturday evening with your kids or grandkids? Put the Ogle County 4-H Penny Carnival on your March schedule! 4-H Penny Carnival is set for March 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Blackhawk Center...
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign receives 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification
CHAMPAIGN, Ill.— University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has been awarded the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, a national distinction that recognizes higher education institutions demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to community engagement. Illinois previously received...
Illinois Extension supports rural communities with a business transition plans series
URBANA, Ill. — Across the United States, many small-business owners are approaching retirement without a clear plan for what comes next. Although these entrepreneurs have spent decades building companies that support local jobs and services, many are unaware of succession options beyond...
U of I Extension to offer free gardening programs in Stillman Valley
STILLMAN VALLEY, Ill.— The Ogle County Master Gardeners invite community members to grow their gardening knowledge through two free educational programs offered in March and May at the Julia Hull District Library, 100 Library Lane, Stillman Valley. Space is limited. Reserve your spot by calling...
U of I Extension offering Master Naturalist training in Oregon
OREGON, Ill.— Individuals who are passionate about nature, conservation, and strengthening their communities are invited to apply for the Illinois Master Naturalist Program, now accepting registrations for its Spring 2026 training cohort. Pre‑registration is required by March 13. Contact...
