Northern Illinois youth dance program wins Extension Innovation Award
URBANA, Ill. — Dance is an art form that moves us while having fun. Research shows that children who dance report better stress release, improved focus and concentration, and a better sense of self and freedom. University of Illinois Extension awarded 4-H Youth Development Specialist...
Extension recognizes employee excellence, commitment to mission
URBANA, Ill. — Across the state, more than 650 University of Illinois Extension employees work to serve the communities where they live and help tackle local issues with research-based solutions. Illinois Extension honored 11 outstanding individuals whose efforts demonstrate significant public...
Dig deeper into local agriculture at one of Illinois Extension’s Agronomy Summits
URBANA, Ill. — With the Midwest harvest season in the books and spring 2025 coming into view, plan to attend one of six University of Illinois Extension Agronomy Summits across the state. Attendees will hear research updates from university experts...
Discover practical tips for chronic disease management
URBANA, Ill. — Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, often leading to a diminished quality of life and emotional distress. Many individuals struggle daily with persistent discomfort that impacts their ability to work, engage in activities they love, and maintain relationships....
As climate change impacts the world, citizen science project focuses on community-level data
URBANA, Ill. — “Nice weather we’re having.” “Looks like rain.” “Can you believe how cold it is?” Whether the skies are clear, or a storm is incoming, people pay attention to the weather. It prompts how we dress, where we go, and our plans for the day. We can’t control it, and it is one thing we...
Candy jar terrariums: A nostalgic take on a holiday gift
URBANA, Ill. — Leaves and temperatures are falling. As we prepare landscapes and gardens for winter, look towards indoor plant care to warm the mood. Giving plants for the holidays brings a little sunshine and warmth to those near and dear.Impossible bottles or...
Add these garden tools to holiday wish lists
URBANA, Ill. — Gardeners love a fresh pair of pruners or nicely sharpened spade. Using specialized tools helps to lighten the workload, and using the right tool for the job can save a lot of time. Keep these ideas in mind when looking for innovative tools to add to gift lists throughout the...
Successful Ag Career Exploration Fair was held last week
OREGON, Ill. – Over 175 high school and middle school students attended the Ag Career Exploration Fair on Nov. 21 in Oregon. Students met with and asked questions to college recruiters and business representatives who focused on studies and careers in the agricultural field. Colleges...
Community donations make the Winter Gear Drive a success
OREGON, Ill. – Thanks to generous donations, the “Spread the Warmth- Winter Gear Drive” was successful. Ogle County 4-H and the Oregon Avalanche Softball Organization thoughtfully collaborated throughout the last month to help keep the community warm this winter. All donations benefitted...
Ogle County 4-H'ers honored for outstanding achievement
OREGON, Ill. - Eighty-nine Ogle County 4-H’ers were honored for their achievements during the 2024 4-H year at club programs this fall. The 4-H Experience Award allows 4-H’ers to be recognized for their work in Project Learning, Participation, Community Service, and Leadership. Three...
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 November 17 at the Byron Jr High School Theatre, the program featured the presentation of numerous awards, including the “County Project Honor Award...
Overwintering potted plants
URBANA, Ill. — Perennial plants being overwintered in pots are subjected to much harsher conditions compared to those in the soil. Because of this, they can be damaged and killed. Fortunately, there are some steps to try to get these plants through the winter and enjoy them again come spring....
Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit to be held January 29
Freeport, IL---Every growing season, corn and soybean producers have to make numerous management decisions that affect their bottom line. And as agriculture technology and research advance at a rapid pace, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest recommendations. To provide...
Talking Crop Podcast Wraps Up First Season
The first season of Talking Crop has been wrapped up and features ten episodes with various guest experts. These experts were from University of Illinois Extension, University of Illinois Department of Crop Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension, and Winnebago County...
Master Gardener Training in Stephenson County
The University of Illinois Extension is excited to announce the upcoming Master Gardener Training in Stephenson County, starting in February. Interested individuals can register now by calling (815) 235-4125 or...
Hispanic 4-H Juntos Family Experience set for Dec. 4
BELVIDERE, Ill. - University of Illinois Extension and Rock Valley College are hosting a Hispanic 4-H Juntos Family Experience for high school students and their families. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, December 4, from 5:30 - 7 PM at Rock Valley College, Main Campus Stenstrom Center, at 3301...
Ogle Jolly 4-H Club receive awards
OREGON, Ill. - The Ogle Jolly 4-H Club met on November 18 for their monthly meeting. The Cloverbuds, youth ages 5-7, made pumpkin pie in a bag. 4-H members reflected on their Veterans Day visit to Double O Saloon in Monroe Center to thank veterans and give them cards. Members...
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, November 17, in the Byron Civic Theatre.Top county honors went to 4-H teens Aylivia Danekas, Polo, and Nicholas Cassens, Byron. Danekas, Pine Creek Valley 4-H...
