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Announcements & Highlights
Registration is open for 4-H Camp
4-H Camp is from June 14-18 at Rock River Christian Camp in Polo. Sign your child(ren) up today for an amazing week. Camp is open to ALL youth ages 8-14 as of June 14, 2026. 4-H membership is NOT REQUIRED. Early bird camp cost is $325 for 4-H members and $375 for non-4-H members until March 1. Spots fill up fast, so register here now!
Floral Design Class | Oregon | Feb. 3
Join us for a free, informational introduction to the art of floral design! In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn how to create beautiful, professional-looking arrangements using simple techniques and thoughtful design. Discover tips on flower selection, color combinations, and styling methods that will make your blooms shine—whether for gifts, décor, or personal enjoyment. Call the Rock River Center to register at 815-732-3252.
Gardener's Pathway & Artisan Market | Sycamore | Feb. 28
Hosted by the DeKalb County Master Gardeners. Grow your skills, spark your creativity, and connect with fellow plant lovers at this year’s Gardening Workshop and Artisan Market—a full day designed for both new and experienced gardeners. Register here by Feb. 14. What the day includes: continental breakfast, Keynote presentation by Mark Dwyer, three breakout sessions, lunch, and door prizes.
Upcoming Events at the Natural Resource Education Center | Genoa
Pesticide Applicator/Operator In-Person Testing | Oregon
Register today for the Oregon in-person pesticide applicator/operator testing. There are four dates to choose from: February 4 & 18, and March 4 & 18. Testing takes place at the Ogle County Farm Bureau, 421 W Pines Rd in Oregon.
Day of Dabbling | Open to all youth ages 5-18
Day of Dabbling is on Feb. 28 from 9 AM to 12 PM and is a day of hands-on learning and fun that will have you DOING, THINKING, and CREATING! Bring LOTS of energy AND get ready to dabble. You do not have to be in any particular project area to attend. In fact, you don't even have to be in 4-H, so bring a friend! You must be 5 years and older to participate. For more information and to pre-register by February 13, go here. The event takes place at Oregon Church of God, 860 W Oregon Trail Rd, Oregon, IL 61061.
Introduction to Hydroponics | Oregon
Curious about growing plants without soil? Ready to explore a modern, efficient way to garden? Join us for an engaging workshop, Introduction to Hydroponics, presented by Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Bruce Black. During this hands-on session, you’ll discover: what hydroponics is and how it works, which plants thrive in hydroponic systems, how to cultivate, maintain, and harvest your setup, and tips to get started at home. This program starts at 10 AM on March 5, at the Rock River Center, Inc. in Oregon. Program fee is $10 and registration is REQUIRED by calling 815-732-3252. We will give you all the supplies to "make and take" a canning jar hydroponic planter!
Upcoming Community and Economic Development Webinars
Register today for these February virtual events! The first one is the 2026 Corn Belt Ports Update on Feb. 12, and then we will explore the community response to the Resilient Communities: Data Centers Part 3 on Feb. 24.
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