Field Day event plans to keep beef cattle producers up on trends for their herds
URBANA, Ill. — Beef cattle producers will gain insights and stay up to date on current research from cow/calf patterns to alternative forages and more at the Orr Beef Research Center's Field Day on September 6. The meeting will be held at the John Wood Community College Ag Center located...
Illinois Extension investing in the future of farming across the state
URBANA, Ill. — Helping Illinois farmers grow thriving crops and livestock has always been at the heart of University of Illinois Extension’s mission. Using feedback received from farmers and other agricultural stakeholders through a 2022 survey,...
Asking for help just got easier with no-cost mental health access for agricultural community
URBANA, Ill. — Farming is stressful, and the Illinois agriculture community faces unique challenges every day that take a toll on mental health. A new program from University of Illinois Extension gives farmers and their families access to professional mental health care for free.
The...
Farm stressors affect mental health of adults and adolescent children
URBANA, Ill. — Agriculture is a stressful occupation, and farmers face substantial mental health challenges. Research indicates they often experience higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to the general population, but less is known about the effects on their...
Strengthen your farm's resiliency with legal training for Illinois small farms
URBANA, Ill. — Legal risks can be fatal to a farm business and addressing them proactively can keep farms in business. The relief of understanding legal issues can dispel anxiety and help farmers realize their power to control their circumstances....
Expand your knowledge of regenerative agriculture at Dudley Smith Farm Field Day
URBANA, Ill. — Whether you are a farmer, producer, or consumer, it is important to stay informed on current and upcoming agricultural practices. The ag industry is fast-paced and filled with technology pushing efficiency forward. Without these advancements, farmers could not continue to feed the...
How have Illinois soils changed over 120 years? U of I scientist needs your help
URBANA, Ill. – When he heard an old barn on the University of Illinois campus was scheduled for demolition, soil scientist Andrew Margenot went to investigate. Inside, on dusty shelves, he discovered a time capsule in the form of thousands of jars of soil from around the state, some dating as...
IPT bulls average $4,400, exceed previous sales
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – This year's Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale average exceeded all previous sales, averaging $4,440 on the 49 lots offered Feb. 23 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
"This sale continues to be one of the best sources for total performance...
Early adopters find unique approaches to alternative cow housing systems
URBANA, Ill. – Rising property prices, bad weather, and shrinking pasture acreage challenge Illinois ranchers and limit herd sizes. But what happens when cow and calf producers move cattle into open-air buildings for long periods?
That is what University of Illinois staff and Extension...
Beef up your 2023 beef herd management
URBANA, Ill – Producers can improve herd management by learning latest research on cover crop performance, grazing farms, soil health, and drainage practices during the 2023 Dudley Smith Farm Winter Meeting.
The meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 7 at the...
Illinois receives $14.4M to create local food system for underserved populations
URBANA, Ill. - Illinois will use $14.4 million in USDA funding to buy locally-produced food and distribute it to those in need, according to state officials. The two-year program will involve direct purchases from eligible farmers and multiple aggregation sites where goods will be consolidated...
Illinois 4-H Livestock Judging Team places seventh in the nation
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Team took seventh in the nation at the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. This contest is held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition in...
Illinois 4-H Skillathon Team Crowned National Champions
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Illinois 4-H Livestock Skillathon Team recently topped 20 teams from across U.S. to bring home the National 4-H Livestock Skillathon Champion title. The contest was held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock...
Illinois 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Team named fourth in the nation
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Illinois State 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Team was named fourth in the nation at the National 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Contest held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Ky. ...
Nominate bulls for 2023 IPT Bull Sale
URBANA, Ill. – Breeders must nominate bulls by Dec. 1 for consideration to the 2023 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. The sale will be Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield and includes old and young bulls. Young bulls must have calved between Jan. 1, 2021...
Soil forecasting project seeks survey input for app development
URBANA, Ill. – For farmers and agribusiness leaders, accessing reliable and timely soil condition data can drive important soil management decisions that affect both short- and long-term production success.
A research collaboration between University of Illinois and...
Record number of youth compete for superior young livestock producer honor
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A record number of 4-H members from across Illinois competed for scholarships in the 2022 4-H Illinois Superior Young Livestock Producers Contest held on Aug.10 in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair. Fifty-two competitors vied for this year's top honors.
This...
New U of I farm apprenticeship turns out veggies and well-equipped farmers
URBANA, Ill. – A new University of Illinois program will train beginner specialty crop growers in every aspect of farm operation and management. The year-long Illinois Small Farm Apprenticeship Program offers new farmers opportunities to learn by doing and to deepen that experiential knowledge...
Make informed decisions for your beef herd
BAYLIS, Ill., – Producers weigh management options to build profitable cattle herds. Researchers at this year's Orr Beef Research Center Field Day will review several management practices to consider.
The field at begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 at the Ag Sciences Complex and Fred...
