News Releases

Learn safe food handling, prep methods
URBANA, Ill. - Approximately one in six Americans gets a foodborne illness each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Foodborne illnesses are not a minor inconvenience. In fact, the CDC estimates that foods...
A volunteer helps remeasure the state champion water tupelo.
Illinois’ big trees are on the map
URBANA, Ill. – From the depths of the Shawnee National Forest to backyards in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois’ biggest trees are branching out. For the first time, the state’s champion trees are now available as an interactive digital map. “For more than 58 years, the Illinois Big Tree...
Uncovering the financial nightmare of COVID-19
URBANA, Ill. - As COVID-19 continues to burden systems around the world, the economic shock and effects of business closures, unemployment, unrealized tax collections, and Medicaid expenditures are being analyzed. A webinar co-sponsored by the University of Illinois Institute of Government and...
Get out of the sun with 5 ideas for backyard shade
URBANA, Ill. - Relaxing outdoors while surrounded by plants is a great stress reducer. As temperatures heat up, you can prolong your time outside by creating some shade in your yard. "Shaded areas let you stay outside longer without getting exhausted from the sun," says...
Forestry website supports Illinois woodland owners
URBANA, Ill. – The University of Illinois Extension forestry program launched its newly designed website making it easier for forest owners to access the tools they need to manage their woodlands.   “Our new website was developed to help educate, advise and assist the public with...
Every Step Counts Lunch & Learn Online Class and Walking Club Challenge
Every step does count.  Studies show using activity trackers gives you an accurate count for steps, heart rate, and sleep. They are also fun; they get you off the couch and moving! “One could say they are a wearable piece of accountability.” With built-in reminders to get up and moving, activity...
Governments look for ways to help small businesses
URBANA, Ill. - Community leaders across Illinois are working hard to adopt and overcome challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new survey conducted by University of Illinois Extension. Town, city, and county leaders across the...
Growing irises: How to plant, grow and care for iris
URBANA, Ill. - There aren’t very many plants that come in a wider range of color than iris. In the past 50 years, thousands of cultivars in various colors, sizes, and forms have been developed. "I have about 20 cultivars of bearded iris in my garden including a small white and lavender...
Virtual STEAM career exploration for middle schoolers
PEKIN, Ill - This summer, middle school students can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) careers during “Meet a STEAM Professional.” This program, offered by University of Illinois Extension and 4-H, will allow young people to get a behind-the-scenes look at STEAM...