News Releases

hemp field
Hemp research a win-win for new Midwestern crop
URBANA, Ill. – Industrial hemp is one of the fasting growing crops across Midwestern fields and researchers are recruiting producers in the race to learn more.  University of Illinois Extension commercial agriculture educators are...
Bureau County Youth invited to showcase public presentation skills
4-H excels in preparing youth to speak confidently. The 4-H Public Presentation Contest allows youth to highlight their exceptional presentation abilities in a supportive environment. Youth will learn from professionals as well as their fellow 4-H members.   Youth ages 8 – 18 are...
Hi-fidelity college exploratory offered through Illini Summer Academies
 Illinois 4-H is proud to offer this hi-fidelity college exploratory experience through University of Illinois. Participants attend academy sessions led by university professors and enjoy a variety of engaging activities that provide a taste of just how cool college life can be. ...
Follow cottage food laws when selling at farmers markets
URBANA, Ill – Have you considered selling your homemade foods at a farmers market? Basic guidelines outline what growers and vendors must observe in preparation for farmers market sales. Cottage food operations can be a simple way to generate income from home. The...
Stay safe on the farm this planting season
URBANA, Ill. – Spring is characterized by a fury of activity on farms. In the rush to get crops in the ground, farmers may not have safety and health as a priority.  Learn how to prevent common farm injuries and illness during this critical time at a free online webinar by...
Four Seasons Gardening Program Offers Free Winter Series Webinars
The winter series of the University of Illinois Extension’s Four Seasons Gardening Program, which focuses on environmental stewardship, home gardening, and backyard food production, got underway the month of January. The public is invited to participate in this free webinar series. The second...
It’s full STEAM ahead with LaSalle County 4-H!
Utica Public Library is joining LaSalle County 4-H in participating with 4-H’s STEAM kit program. This partnership will allow youth ages 8 – 18 to receive free monthly activities...
Dream big with expert updates for northern fruit, vegetable farmers
URBANA, Ill. – When upstate fruit and vegetable growers are looking to diversify their small farm or adopt new practices, they rely on the experts at University of Illinois Extension. Every February, Extension educators meet with Wisconsin and Illinois commercial vegetable and fruit...