Shifting USDA plant hardiness map reflects changing climate, changes for plants
URBANA, Ill. — On a cold, blustery January day, it may be hard to remember that 2023 was the hottest year on record. But the newest update to the plant hardiness map, in which half the country shifted to warmer zones, is a stark reminder that the climate is changing and changing fast....
Explore green space stewardship practices, emerging trends at 2024 Gateway Green Conference
URBANA, Ill. — Evolving research and environmental changes make it more important than ever for professionals who work with trees, landscapes, natural areas, and parks to remain current with responsible stewardship practices, understand how to successfully manage emerging diseases and pests, and...
Opportunity to learn practical money management strategies
URBANA, Ill. — Navigating financial management can often seem overwhelming and intimidating, particularly for those uncertain about how to begin. Studies have shown that financial stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, having access to practical...
Did you forget to water your plants? Try low-maintenance succulents
URBANA, Ill. — Liven up your home this winter by introducing carefree and cheery succulents. Succulents offer interesting shapes and colors with their unique fleshy, plump leaves. The best part is they are relatively simple to care for if you can provide ample light.
A few easy-care...
Learn tips for a healthy pregnancy, toddler nutrition
URBANA, Ill. — The 1,000 days between a person's pregnancy and their child's second birthday offer a unique opportunity to build a healthier and more prosperous future, so knowing how to care for mother and baby during this period is vital.
The University of Illinois Extension...
Illinois Extension in Champaign County welcomes nutrition and wellness educator
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension is pleased to welcome Rachel Mannen as a nutrition and wellness educator in their Champaign County office. This role will equip individuals and families in Champaign, Ford, Iroquois, and Vermilion Counties with the tools they need to move...
Illinois Extension and local libraries partner for Lessons at the Library
RANTOUL AND CISSNA PARK, Ill – University of Illinois Extension is excited to bring its popular Lessons for Living series to local libraries. Lessons for Living is a free in-person series where people can learn valuable life lessons and get relevant, easy-to-understand tips for living an...
SNAP-Ed sprouts healthy habits across generations in Champaign County
SNAP-Ed is on a mission to empower people of all ages to make healthy choices. Recognizing the growing need for comprehensive nutrition education across all ages, we've proactively forged valuable partnerships and developed innovative programs this year, bringing healthy choices to both youth...
Local team of volunteers take on pollinator decline crisis
Beyond filling our plates, pollinators play a hard-to-detect but crucial role on a global scale. While it’s easy to focus on their contribution to our food supply, with 35% globally relying directly or indirectly on their work, their impact stretches far wider.Across the United States,...
The Spark of Curiosity: How Cloverbud Camp bridged the gap for 4-H families
Ford and Iroquois Counties presented a unique dilemma for 4-H: a disconnect between the needs of the youngest and oldest members. On one hand, Cloverbuds, eager to explore and learn, needed more engaging workshops tailored to their age and interests. On the other hand, older teens craved...
FCS bringing tools and training to rural communities
Access to healthy living resources is often limited in rural Illinois, presenting a unique challenge. Addressing this issue head-on, Illinois Extension Family Life team launched two initiatives this year focusing on brain health and social isolation in rural locations across Iroquois, Vermilion...
Illinois Extension partners with New American Welcome Center for Let's Talk Money
URBANA, Ill — Feeling overwhelmed by finances? Don't worry, you're not alone. University of Illinois Extension and the New American Welcome Center are excited to offer a six-session series called “Let’s Talk Money!” to help you gain...
Keep dogs safe this winter
URBANA, Ill. — As the days inch further and further into winter and frigid temperatures, Dr. Pavlovsky, director of the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine South Clinic, has...
4-H celebrates shining stars at Golden Clovers
SAVOY, Ill. — Champaign County 4-Hers shone brightly as they celebrated their accomplishments and hard work over the past year at the Golden Clovers at the Savoy Elks Lodge on November 13, 2023. The Golden Clovers is the annual Champaign County 4-H awards celebration. This event...
Local 4-Hers honored with Live Like Luke Award
SAVOY, Ill. — As 4-Hers from all over Champaign County gathered on November 19 at the Golden Clovers, the annual 4-H Award Celebration, three 4-Hers were recognized for their passion and how they treat their fellow 4-Hers. Champaign County 4-H recognized Josh Dilger, Grace Iluyomade, and...
Illinois 4-H youth earn spot at national conference for exceptional achievements
Atlanta, GA -- Ten teens from Illinois attended a five-day national conference in Atlanta, GA designed to expand their skills, engage with other 4-H members, and provide inspiration. Delegates to National 4-H Congress are selected on their...
Stretch your roots this winter with Four Seasons Gardening webinars
URBANA, Ill. — Seasons come and go, but home gardening never stops. Explore how to keep your green thumb growing this winter with Four Seasons Gardening webinars.
University of Illinois Extension experts will share tips for starting...
Bloom in the winter with gift of amaryllis bulb kit
URBANA, Ill. — The gift of gardening is an experience anyone can appreciate this holiday season. Take the stress out of shopping this holiday season and give a blooming amaryllis kit that brings the beauty of nature indoors.
Poinsettias are beautiful, popular holiday plants, but the gift...
Dig in with confidence with spring vegetable gardening workshops
URBANA, Ill. — Growing a vegetable garden takes work, but sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start. Grow with confidence this spring with Growing Great Vegetables, a five-week webinar series from University of Illinois Extension that explores everything from seeds and soil to a...
