The hallmark of any Extension program is the information shared be research-based and communicated in a manner that helps to drive change in a community. Richard Proffer, University of Illinois Extension community &...

Protecting and restoring Illinois' natural landscapes is a team effort, and the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists are proud to be part of the winning squad. In the spring of 2022,...

Farming is a way of life for many families, and it often involves the active participation of children and teenagers. While the experience of working on a farm can be invaluable for the development of responsibility, work ethic, and a strong connection to the land, it's essential to prioritize farm...

Master Gardeners and gardening enthusiasts from across the state converged on East Peoria for the 2023 Illinois Master Gardener State Conference, held September 7-8. The conference was organized by Extension Master Gardeners and staff from Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties and offered a...

By combining multiple programs into one event, University of Illinois Extension SNAP-Education staff have created a family-friendly event that quickly became a favorite activity for that youth and adults enjoyed together. PJs and Pancakes is just as it sounds...participants come dressed in their...

It is easy for University of Illinois Extension staff to see the amazing work Extension Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists do in and for the community. It is not always common knowledge for the public to know about all of the projects. Thanks to the work of two interns, 20 Extension Master...

National 4-H Week is a time when 4-H members across the United States come together to showcase their passion for leadership, citizenship, community service, and all things 4-H. This annual event takes place in the first full week of October...

For the past twelve years, adults in Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties have been engaged in local natural resource education and volunteer efforts in the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist (EMN) program...

During the 2022 Mason County Fair, there was a health emergency that inspired 4-H members and volunteers into action. Thanks to the efforts led by Mason County Pleasant Workers 4-H Club and Kountry Kritters 4-H Club there are now two automated external defibrillators (AED) and nine new first aid...

Author: Carla Rich Montez, Illinois Extension Master Naturalist It’s not easy to be a bluebird family. Aggressive birds discourage nesting; predators steal eggs and chicks; competing cavity nesters claim the boxes; insects attack featherless hatchlings. Even the weather...