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Let us help you grow.

TICK ON BARK

Everyone is concerned about ticks

At least three potentially harmful tick species are found in varying levels across Illinois according to a recent U of I study: the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum), the black-legged or deer tick (Ixodes scapularis), and the dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis). Though all Illinois counties are likely home to all three tick species, southern Illinois has more lone star ticks, northern and central Illinois have higher numbers of deer ticks, and dog ticks are most common in central and southern Illinois. Learn more here!

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Forest Quest | Nov. 23 & 24 | A "school's out" day camp!

In Russell Woods Forest Preserve, hike between the Natural Resource Education Center and stove-heated cabins to enjoy a variety of forest/nature-themed lessons and games! Day campers will be separated into two age groups. Activities will vary each day, so sign up for one or both days. Go here to get your questions answered by looking at the brochure. For other questions or to register, call Program Coordinator Marian at 815-784-2000. Or email her at mariantt@illinois.edu.

Two white and brown goats

Ogle County Farm Stroll | October 11 | 10 AM to 4 PM

Join us at the OGLE COUNTY FARM STROLL, a self-guided TOUR of ten INCREDIBLE Ogle County family farms, and YOU get to decide YOUR ROUTE. Hit one farm or ALL ten—wander, taste, learn, repeat. Rain or shine, come out to SATISFY your local FOOD CRAVINGS AND CURIOSITY about the farms that grow your food. The FARM STROLL IS FREE but bring cash to buy IRRESISTIBLE GOODIES. Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Don't forget to pick up a "passport" at your first farm visit. Fill it out per the instructions, and drop it at your last farm visit for a chance to win a prize from one of the farms. You do not need to visit all the farms to enter the prize drawing — just be sure to fill out your contact information.  New this year, the signs that are put up will include the Farm Host's address along with a QR code for Google Maps directions. This event is hosted by the Ogle County Master Gardeners. We want to thank Compeer Financial and Stillman Bank for graciously sponsoring our printing services this year. View Farm Hosts here!

Thank you for your partnership!

Farm Stroll Sponsors
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Compeer Financial

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Stillman Bank

Our Master Naturalists did the first step...

Check out these online Walking Guides.

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After the Storm

Clean Up and Recovery Resources

After strong storms swept across much of Illinois, many communities are facing damaged property and stressful situations. The hours and days following a major storm are often filled with urgent questions. Residents can navigate those decisions using research-based resources from University of Illinois Extension to guide safe cleanup and recovery.

Follow our new Master Gardener and Master Naturalist Facebook page today!

Grow, learn, and give back with Illinois Extension in Boone, DeKalb, and Ogle counties. Master Gardeners support community gardens and share research‑based gardening knowledge, while Master Naturalists help restore and protect local natural areas. This page will let you know the latest programming, workshops, and educational material in our communities.

News Releases

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings