Candice King Guest Speaks at 4-H Public Speaking Workshop
On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, thirty-nine youth from Stephenson, Winnebago, Ogle, Boone, and DeKalb Counties attended a public speaking workshop at the Machine Shed in Rockford, Illinois. This workshop helps youth learn new techniques to prepare them for their counties’ upcoming public...
New series connects communities with experts to strengthen public health knowledge
URBANA, Ill. — Technology has made health information more accessible than ever, but inaccurate and misleading online content poses serious public health risks. To address this challenge, educators, researchers, and community partners are working together to promote accurate, science-based...
Illinois 4-H horse judging contest crowns top youth competitors
GALVA, Ill. — Youth from 29 counties across Illinois participated in the 2026 Illinois State 4-H Horse Judging Contest on Feb. 1, at Black Hawk College East Campus in Galva.Shelby Krutke of McLean County earned the Larry Carls Memorial Award as the contest’s overall high point individual...
Dig into spring gardening with confidence at local gardening programs
URBANA, Ill. — Gardening is an ever-evolving journey, and each growing season brings fresh experiences and strategies for both new and veteran gardeners. This spring, learn more gardening techniques and grow...
Know before you throw, new law expands free battery recycling options
URBANA, Ill. — After years of powering remotes, children’s toys, and other household devices, the final destination for used batteries is usually the junk drawer. Or worse, it is tossed in the trash can. Now,...
Gardener's Pathway and Artisan Market brings hands-on fun back on Feb. 28
SYCAMORE, Ill.— The annual Gardener's Pathway and Artisan Market hosted by the DeKalb County Master Gardeners returns on Feb. 28 at the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, 1350 W Prairie Dr, Sycamore, from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm. Gardeners of all experience levels are invited to grow their skills and connect...
Illinois Extension announces upcoming Community and Economic Development webinars
OREGON, Ill.— Illinois Extension is launching a new round of Community and Economic Development webinars this February, offering Illinois residents, local leaders, and regional stakeholders timely insights into major economic shifts shaping the state. The series highlights two fast‑evolving...
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...
Wild Neighbors: Beavers—Nature’s Engineers program coming to Oregon
OREGON, Ill.—Local residents will have an opportunity to learn more about one of Illinois’ most fascinating native animals during Wild Neighbors: Beavers—Nature’s Engineers, a free program offered by University of Illinois Extension. The presentation will be held on Wednesday, February...
Extension, Rock River Center Announce February and March Programs
OREGON, Ill.— University of Illinois Extension and Rock River Center, Inc. will offer two hands‑on learning opportunities this winter, with programs designed for both creative beginners and home‑garden enthusiasts. Registration is required for all sessions by calling 815‑732‑3252.A...
Tri-State Forest Stewardship Conference returns to support Midwest landowners
URBANA, Ill. — The Tri-State Forest Stewardship Conference, one of the largest gatherings for forest landowners in the Midwest, returns this spring. For more than 25 years, the conference has provided resources to forest landowners in the Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin area to better manage their...
Ogle County 4-H invites youth to a morning of creativity at Day of Dabbling
OREGON, Ill.— Ogle County 4‑H is welcoming families to an exciting, hands‑on morning of discovery at Day of Dabbling, a youth learning event packed with creativity, curiosity, and fun. The program takes place on February 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Oregon Church of God, 860 W Oregon...
Illinois 4-H youth among nation’s top teen leaders at National 4-H Congress
ATLANTA, Ga. — Ten Illinois teens represented the state at National 4-H Congress, a five-day national conference held Nov. 28–Dec. 2, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia. The event brought together outstanding 4-H members from across the country for leadership development, educational...
