University of Illinois Extension to offer Master Naturalist Volunteer Training this Summer
Do you love spending time outdoors? Do you enjoy sharing your passion for the natural world with those around you? Would you like to help others connect with nature? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should consider becoming a University of Illinois...
Extension Sustainability on the Farm program series cultivates knowledge and inspires action
OGLESBY, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension, serving Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam counties, recently concluded its “Sustainability on the Farm” program series, equipping local farmers and landowners with valuable knowledge and practical tools to enhance their agricultural...
Bureau, LaSalle, and Marshall-Putnam 4-H Public Speaking Contest Results
On March 8, 2025, youth from Bureau, LaSalle, and Marshall-Putnam Counties displayed their public speaking skills during the 4-H Public Speaking Contest at Illinois Valley Community College. This contest was a multi-county event where participants brought energy to the stage. All speakers were...
Mastering equine judging: Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest results announced
GALVA, Ill. – Youth from across Illinois demonstrated their equine knowledge at the Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest on Feb. 2 in Galva, Illinois. Participants evaluated six classes of horses, including at least two halter classes, with youth 14 years and older also competing in the...
Illinois Extension Agronomy Summit discusses best management practices for corn and soy
OGLESBY, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension hosted the inaugural Oglesby Agronomy Summit on January 23, 2025 at Illinois Valley Community College. Expanding from one event in northern Illinois last year to six this year, the Agronomy Summits are intended to provide farmers and...
Online weight loss program is effective way to reach rural populations, study shows
URBANA, Ill. — People living in rural areas are at greater risk for obesity than the general population, and they often have limited access to healthy, affordable food, physical activity facilities, public transportation, and healthcare institutions. Weight loss interventions are more successful...
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
Connect with health information experts in the Springtime Science series
URBANA, Ill. — While technology has revolutionized access to health information, the proliferation of inaccurate and potentially dangerous content online presents a significant public health challenge. It is essential to develop collaborative models that bring together researchers, educators,...
Illinois 4-H expands shooting sports expertise with newly certified coordinators
CHAMPAIGN, IL – Illinois 4-H has recently certified eight staff members as Level I 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinators. These individuals completed in a three-session professional development series, paving the way for future opportunities in 4-H Shooting Sports programming....
Strengthen spring planting with tips from Growing Great Vegetables webinar series
URBANA, Ill. — As gardening continues to gain popularity, it is important to keep the learning growing. Whether it is skills needed for a large backyard garden or a few windowsill and porch pots, sharing the knowledge and how much fun gardening activities with others can be very fulfilling....
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....
New Ag Educator joins local Extension staff
OGLESBY, Ill. – The University of Illinois Extension is pleased to announce the addition of Emily Hansen as a Commercial Agriculture Educator serving Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam counties. Emily joined our team in November 2023 and has already hit the ground running with programs...
Farmland Owners Conference attracts over 220 attendees from 7 states
OGLESBY, Ill. – The 2024 Farmland Owners Conference held on November 28th, left attendees inspired, informed, and empowered. The event, held at Illinois Valley Community College, brought together over 220 landowners, agribusiness representatives, and industry experts to discuss the latest...
Pesticide applicator tests to be offered in winter 2025
OGLESBY, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam counties is offering the following testing-only sessions and certification program for pesticide applicators. Certification is required to apply restricted-use pesticides. All sessions are offered...
Sign up open for statewide in-person pesticide applicator training clinics
URBANA, Ill. — Get ahead of an expired pesticide license by signing up for one of the in-person training and testing clinics happening across Illinois from January through April. The University of Illinois Pesticide Safety Education Program...
Mackenzie Sherman Competes in National Public Speaking Contest
Louisville, KY – November 9, 2024 – Mackenzie Sherman, a dedicated 4-H member from Bureau County, earned 7th place in the Public Speaking Contest at the Eastern National 4-H Roundup, held November 8-9, 2024, at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center in Louisville, KY. This...
Ag Field Day brings together students, growers, and industry experts
OGLESBY, Ill. — Illinois Valley Community College in partnership with the University of Illinois Extension hosted its annual Fall Field Day on September 6, 2024. IVCC Ag + Extension’s Fall Field Day gives both students and the community a chance to learn about the latest research updates...
