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Announcements & Highlights

Watershed Steward Program | DeKalb County

Did you know that University of Illinois Extension in DeKalb County is offering the Watershed Steward program for members of our communities? This program engages participants as stewards of their local watershed by offering information from scientists, researchers, and watershed management professionals. This five-session education program helps people understand how their water travels from rainfall to potential drinking water and so much more. Five daytime classes- May 26 through June 16. Begin by completing this form.

Mother's Day Flower Walk | Genoa | May 9

On the day before Mother's Day, Saturday, May 9, come out to the guided wildflower walks at the Natural Resource Education Center (NREC) in Russell Woods Forest Preserve. The upland paved path allows people of all abilities to enjoy the flowers. Walks start on the hour at 10 AM. The last walk will start at 1 PM. Two local botany enthusiasts, Karen Matz and Brian Hale, will lead and talk about forest plants and what is blooming. All are welcome on the guided hikes. There is no fee for the walks, and the NREC will be open for visitors. Extension Master Naturalists will be in the Natural Resource Education Center to welcome visitors while they wait for the next walk. Come in and see our wildlife exhibits!

NatureFest 2026 | Genoa | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Get ready for the annual NatureFest on Saturday, May 16! Hosted by Illinois Extension, DeKalb County Forest Preserve, DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the DeKalb County Health Department. It occurs at the only nature center in DeKalb County, Genoa's Natural Resource Education Center. This family-friendly, free event is perfect for families with elementary-aged children and up. There will be nature-themed hands-on learning activities. The event is outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather. Learning topics include turtles, camouflage, insects, river research, and more. Check in at the registration table and pick up a passport and a map of the area.

Explore Russell Woods Forest Preserve and the NREC from 10 AM to 1 PM. Families can take part in multiple hands-on learning activities. Come see T.J. the tortoise (the resident 75-pound African Sulcata tortoise), the other live animal displays, and hike the trails.

Upcoming Events at the Natural Resource Education Center | Genoa

Explore events!

Events

Sustaining Local Commerce: The Role of Community-Supported Enterprises in Business Retention

May 5, 2026

Getting the Scoop on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans

May 6, 2026

County

Stephenson

From Backyards to Boardrooms: Building Community Led Climate Resilience at Every Scale

May 6, 2026

County

Winnebago

Gardening with Native Plants | Stillman Valley

May 7, 2026

County

Ogle

More Events

3 in-person sessions left!

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4-H U: Dream. Plan. Do. | Belvidere

Not sure what's next after high school? Let's figure it out together. For youth entering grades 9-12. 4-H U: Dream. Plan. Do. is a hands-on experience focused on exploring future options, connecting interests to real careers, building life and budgeting skills, and getting help with college applications, scholarships, interviewing, and FAFSA. Youth will meet local professionals and gain confidence as they plan their next steps after high school. Sessions are held at the Boone County Extension Office (Meeting Room, 205 Cadillac Court, Suite 5, Belvidere, IL 61008) from 9–11 am on May 16, July 25, and September 19. Cost is $5 per session.

You do not need to be in 4-H to participate—reserve your spot today!

Registration is required.

Come out to the sessions remaining.

News Releases

April 29, 2026

Become an Illinois Extension Watershed Steward
DEKALB, Ill.—Every day, rain nourishes fields of growing crops, and rivers steadily flow through natural areas and communities until, eventually, drinking water trickles out of faucets into our homes, schools, and businesses. The health of a watershed is connected to the health of a community,...

Recipient holds a sign outlining his plan to go to SIUC in ag studies.

April 27, 2026

Illinois 4-H prepares teens for college, careers, and life, new survey shows
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H is equipping young people with the skills and experiences needed for success beyond high school, according to new data from the 2026 Illinois 4-H Senior Survey.The survey of 334 graduating 4-H members found that youth who participated in the program for an...

April 23, 2026

Get Your Pressure Canner Ready for Canning Season
Freeport, Ill. --As home canning season approaches, ensuring your pressure canner is working properly is an important first step. Dial gauges on pressure canners should be tested each year to confirm they are accurate and operating safely.Only a pressure canner can reach...

April 22, 2026

Illinois 4-H youth showcase equine expertise in statewide contests
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H youth from across the state demonstrated their knowledge, communication skills, and passion for the equine industry during the 2026 State 4-H Horse Bowl, Hippology, and Horse Speaking contests, held April 13 on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. These...

child with clipboard, paper, and pencil outside

April 22, 2026

Fifth annual NatureFest to take place on May 16
GENOA, Ill. —Join us again for a day in the woods. University of Illinois Extension, DeKalb County Forest Preserve, DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District, and DeKalb County Health Department have planned the fifth annual NatureFest. Join us on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m...

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