News Releases

Illinois youth come to the table on food insecurity
URBANA, Ill.— Local solutions to food access, food security, and food justice in Illinois will be developed by youth leaders and industry experts Illinois 4-H Food Action Summit.  The virtual conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 15.  University of Illinois...
Coles County gets $106,000 grant for Embarras River project
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Coles County Soil and Water Conservation District will receive over $106,000 in grant funding to update portions of the 2011 Embarras River Watershed Management Plan. The grants, provided by the Illinois Environmental...
Extension offices fill connectivity gaps
URBANA, Ill. –The COVID-19 pandemic accentuated what was already known about digital connectivity: millions of American don’t have access to high-speed internet; many of those are in rural communities. Children attending daily virtual learning, coupled with adults working from home and...
$10,000 prize awaits top ag innovator
URBANA, Ill – Innovation is the heart of Illinois agriculture. A $10,000 Glen Brandt Prize for Ag Entrepreneurism award will be given to one winner who exemplifies an entrepreneurial spirit and advances innovation through their business practices.  Glen "GB" Brandt, along with...
Wildlife project day offered for prospective 4-Hers
Illinois 4-H is empowering and preparing all Illinois youth for success by providing opportunities where they learn, practice, and demonstrate skills needed for home, career, and global citizenship.  Bureau County 4-H is offering four opportunities, in March, for youth ages 5 – 18 years old...
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...