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Deadly Plants | Belvidere | Oct 21 at 6 PM

Join Boone County Master Gardener/Master Naturalist Bobbi for a fascinating journey into the world of carnivorous and poisonous plants. Discover how these botanical predators trap their prey, where to find them in Illinois, and which toxic plants might be lurking in your own backyard or home. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a curious learner, or just love a good mystery in nature, this program will open your eyes to the darker side of the plant kingdom. Space is limited! Call the Ida Public Library to register at 815-544-3838.

Fruit Tree Pruning Fundamentals | Belvidere | Nov 6 at 6 PM

Join us for a hands-on educational workshop led by Grant McCarty, Local Foods Systems and Small Farms Educator with University of Illinois Extension, alongside the agriculture students of Belvidere North High School. While fruit tree pruning is best done during dormancy (mid-December to March 1), this workshop will equip you with the essential principles and techniques to promote healthy tree growth, maximize fruit production, and improve overall tree structure. Program fee: $5

Vermicomposting | Byron | Nov 4 at 1 PM

Turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold! Join Bruce Black, Horticulture Educator with University of Illinois Extension, for a hands-on session on vermicomposting—the eco-friendly process of using worms to create nutrient-rich compost. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious about sustainable living, this workshop will teach you how to reduce waste and boost your soil health—all with the help of some hardworking worms! Don't miss out—space is limited! Call the library to register at 815-234-5107.

Events

Reclaiming Runaway Landscapes

October 21, 2025

Deadly Plants | Belvidere

October 21, 2025

County

Boone

Protein: More Than Muscles, Unlocking Its Role in Everyday Health

October 22, 2025

Creating with Willow Branches

October 23, 2025

County

JoDaviess

More Events

News Releases

Looking into the canopy of a poplar tree showing early fall color changing from green to yellow

October 17, 2025

Water trees wisely to beat winter woes
URBANA, Ill. — As autumn colors emerge, it may seem that trees are preparing for rest. However, when fall brings dry conditions instead of seasonal rains, trees can enter winter under stress. Fall droughts can be subtle but have lasting impacts. With timely care, trees can weather dry spells and...

A group of six people pose next to a food bank truck filled with meat donations for communities

October 15, 2025

IDOA, ACES, and local food banks unite to deliver 1,000+ pounds of protein during Hunger Action Month
URBANA, Ill. — This year, Champaign County 4-H’er Austin Ater celebrated his 14th birthday in an extraordinary way — by giving back. The 2025 Illinois State Fair junior grand champion poultry exhibitor donated his record-setting winning pen of...

People standing at an Extension informational table

October 15, 2025

Ogle County Farm Stroll draws crowds, celebrates local agriculture
OREGON, Ill. – On Sunday, October 12, the 2025 Ogle County Farm Stroll invited the public to explore the heart of local agriculture, with ten farms across the county opening their gates for a day of education, connection, and countryside charm. Participating farms included Barnhart's Stone...

A stack of recently smashed pumpkins piled in a dumpster to be hauled off for compost

October 13, 2025

Recycle pumpkins with a smash at Illinois Extension fall community composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Whether picking out pumpkins from a field or carving fun faces for jack-o'-lanterns with friends, pumpkins naturally give off fall vibes. But what happens when they start to decay on the porch or countertop, and it’s time to say goodbye? Where do they go? Many think...

October 10, 2025

Youth handlers shine at 2025 4-H state dog show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Dog Show was held on Oct. 4 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. Sixty-six 4-H members represented their home counties across Illinois in 118 individual runs made in partnership with their canine companion. Members who received a qualifying score at...

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