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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.
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.
Homegrown Healthy | Dixon | A free gardening course!
Homegrown Healthy is a 10‑week program designed to give you the confidence, skills, and inspiration to cultivate your own vegetables and enjoy new foods made from garden produce. Learn how to start and maintain your own vegetable garden, get an introduction to hydroponic growing systems, taste delicious dishes made with fresh garden ingredients, build skills week by week in a supportive, hands‑on environment, and more. The program will take place on Wednesdays, 10:00–11:00 AM, starting May 27 in Dillon Mall, at Sauk Valley Community College. No class July 1. (We’ll begin indoors, then head out to the garden together.) Please plan to attend the full series to get the most out of the experience. Funded by the CDC ACTion Grant. Registration deadline: May 22.
Upcoming Events at the Natural Resource Education Center | Genoa
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3 in-person sessions left!
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4-H U: Dream. Plan. Do. | Belvidere
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4-H U: Dream. Plan. Do. | Belvidere
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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.
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You do not need to be in 4-H to participate—reserve your spot today!
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Registration is required.
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