Fall is for feathered friends, fireplaces
URBANA, Ill. – Birdseed and firewood are two common topics that show up every fall. Both take some planning to be successful.
“Feeding the birds means starting earlier than later,” says Richard Hentschel, University of...
Prevent your risk for diabetes before it’s too late
URBANA, Ill. — Six in ten people gained weight during the pandemic, according to an American Psychological Association study. The risk of developing pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes may increase with...
Help save lives, learn how to support mental health in farm, rural communities
URBANA, Ill. – America's farm families pay a heavy mental toll as they deal with unpredictable weather, long work hours, and unpredictable commodity prices. But a gap exists between agricultural workers and the resources they need to stay safe and healthy.
Ag producers,...
During harvest: Know and teach electrical safety on the farm
From dump truck driver to teenager, everyone should be aware of potential electrical hazards
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Harvest means long hours, increased stress, and tight schedules. Because of that, ...
Natural lawn care made easy with new eco-friendly guide
URBANA, Ill. – Every summer weekend, like clockwork, the roar of lawnmowers fills neighborhoods across the state as homeowners and landscape companies try to keep up with the never-ending chore that is lawn care.
...
New grant bolsters Illinois agriculture, rural mental health initiatives
URBANA, Ill. – Farmers are stewards of the soil, their livestock, and their crops, but caring for the land means they often do not take time to care for themselves. Depression, anxiety, and suicide are more common in agricultural populations than the general public.
With the Farm...
Some trees weather wet soils, floods better than others
URBANA, Ill. – The splendor of trees and shrubs comes from what is above ground, but don’t forget about what lies beneath. Poorly drained areas, easily identified after a downpour of rain, are not suitable for some trees or shrubs.
“Soil plays a vital role in the...
Armyworms march into Illinois' fields, lawns, gardens
URBANA, Ill. – Fall armyworm caterpillars are enjoying a bountiful meal at the expense of farmers and homeowners. Prevalent in the southern states, the adult moths move north to Illinois to mate and lay eggs.
This year’s appearance is earlier and in higher...
Extension adds horticulture staff in northwest Illinois
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you’re tending a few well-loved houseplants, responsible for your home or business’ landscape, or growing backyard fruits and vegetables, gardening is challenging. The University of Illinois Extension ...
Tips for planting balled-burlapped trees for long-term health, success
URBANA, Ill. – Fall is a great time to plant trees, many of which are originally grown at a nursery either in a plastic container or in the ground before they are balled and burlapped. How the tree is grown in its first years and then planted affects the long-term health of the tree.
”...
Enjoy soccer for fitness, fun on your own schedule
URBANA, Ill. – A new youth soccer program got kids up and moving this summer. This "at-your-own-pace" program centered on at-home activities that could be completed inside or outside, on any schedule.
“This program is a great COVID era-friendly option for kids,” says...
Youth livestock experts earn $9,000 in scholarships
Springfield, Ill. – Nine 4-H youth from across the state of Illinois used their knowledge and expertise in the livestock field to earn $1,000 scholarships at the August 11 Illinois...
Small bees attracted to small flowers
URBANA, Ill. – While the bumblebee is likely the most well-known pollinator, pollinators come in a variety of shapes, species, and sizes.
“Many entomologists believe the tiny sweat bee nectaring on your flowering weed is just as important to a healthy ecosystem as the more well-known...
Baby feeding resource delivers peace of mind for new parents
URBANA, Ill. – New parents faced with the responsibility of caring for a baby often wonder how often to feed a newborn, when to wean babies from breastmilk or formula, when to introduce baby to solid foods, and whether homemade baby food is better than store-bought.
Babies may not come...