News

Beam signing cements progress on a mission-centered gathering place for University of Illinois Extension
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension is poised to have its first central facility in its 100+ year history by Spring of 2027. The high-impact, geographically dispersed organization serves the state as the outward-facing public good unit...

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...

Start selecting 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Sale bulls
URBANA, Ill. — Seedstock breeders should be identifying bulls they plan to consign to the 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. The IPT Bull Sale is the leadoff event for the annual Illinois Beef Expo in...

Asian longhorned ticks on the move, new detection found in Clay County
URBANA, Ill. — The invasive Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) was recently detected in a new county in Illinois, representing the third county in which it has been found following its ...

lllinois experts offer panels, interactive exhibits, meet-and-greets at Farm Progress Show
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will showcase groundbreaking research, hands-on demonstrations, and expert-led discussions at the 2025 Farm Progress Show in Decatur. Visitors to the...

University of Illinois Extension announces NC State agricultural leader as its new director
URBANA, Ill. — Matthew Vann has been named the new associate dean and director of University of Illinois Extension, the flagship public engagement organization housed in...

Keep animals safe and healthy during excessive heat
URBANA, Ill. — Excessive heat will once again blast much of the United States next week, with heat indices predicted to reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit or more in many locations. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign animal welfare expert...

Include Farm Animals in Disaster Preparedness Plan
URBANA — When tornado sirens become frequent and sudden storms appear out of thin air, it becomes apparent there is a need for a disaster preparedness plan for farmers and large animal owners alike. What happens when disaster strikes and a herd of cattle are grazing pasture?Dr. Yvette...

Meat from Illinois State Fair Sale of Champions donated to Feeding Illinois food banks through new ACES, IDOA partnership
URBANA, Ill. — The...

Record-high results for 2025 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale
URBANA, Ill. — Strong tradition leads to strong results at the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The sale held during the Illinois Beef Expo averaged $7,096 on 33 lots, reaching an all-time record-high average for...

2025 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale prioritizes trusted genetics for herd growth
URBANA, Ill. — Herd knowledge, experience, and the addition of trusted genetics can take a beef cattle herd into new beginnings. Start off the year by attending the annual Illinois Performance...

Learn about the latest research at Dudley Smith Farm
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — Stay informed on current agriculture practices and the latest research taking place at Dudley Smith Farm during the annual Winter Meeting. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County Office located at 1120 N....

Why does the state need Illinois Extension?
The University of Illinois Extension just released a 10-year strategic plan that commits to serving the...

Climate-smart grazing: U. of I. study shows how weather mitigates nitrogen runoff
URBANA, Ill. — Livestock production is an important component of U.S. agriculture, with global demand for meat and dairy expected to double in the coming decades. This increase will lead to intensified grazing on U.S. grasslands, potentially exacerbating water quality degradation from livestock...

Learning and impact guide vision for University of Illinois Extension's new strategic plan
URBANA, Ill. — A committed mission, a bold vision, eight strategic priorities and signature initiatives, and an evergreen commitment to locally responsive programming are the hallmarks of University of Illinois Urbana-...

Orr Beef Center Field Day looks to strengthen beef producers' focus on herd health
URBANA, Ill. — Beef cattle producers can dig deeper into herd health and management research by attending the Orr Beef Research Center Field Day on Sept. 11. The meeting will be held at the...

Illinois Extension’s new strategic priorities and initiatives revealed in town hall event
URBANA, Ill. — A bold vision, eight strategic priorities and signature initiatives, and a continued commitment to locally responsive programming are the hallmarks of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Extension’s new, 10-year...

Explore cutting-edge agricultural technology with I-FARM Learning Series
URBANA, Ill. — Identifying on-farm needs to increase efficiency, safety, practicality, and overall profitability is where ideas for adapting technology begin. From there, advancing technology for productivity and sustainability seems to be more within reach in a changing agricultural landscape....

Report Asian longhorned ticks to help track invasive pest that threatens livestock
URBANA, Ill. — The invasive Asian longhorned tick, which can pose a health risk for humans, animals, and livestock, has been found in Illinois for the first time. Residents of west central Illinois are advised to watch out for and report sightings of this new pest. The Asian...

Explore how starting at the soil can strengthen production at Dudley Smith Farm Field Day
URBANA, Ill. — Soil health and quality play a significant role in the nutritional value of pastures and cover crops, determining grazing strategies and sustainability. Attending the University of Illinois Extension Dudley Smith Farm Field Day this...