News Releases

diverse group of young people gardening
Spring into gardening with tools and tips at upcoming gardening programs
URBANA, Ill. — Spring is near, and your green thumb is ripe for gardening. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, growing nutrient-rich vegetables, fresh fruits, and aromatic herbs is more than just a way to fill your plate; it is like a badge of honor. Gardening...
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
Children excploring outside
Connect with health information experts in the Springtime Science series
URBANA, Ill. — While technology has revolutionized access to health information, the proliferation of inaccurate and potentially dangerous content online presents a significant public health challenge. It is essential to develop collaborative models that bring together researchers, educators,...
A woman stands in a grassy field holding a long blade of grass
Can one person make a difference on environmental issues?
Global environmental issues like habitat loss and pollution can feel overwhelming. Can one person’s actions make a difference? Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator Erin Garrett believes so. Garrett provides...
black cow in a snowy field
Learn about the latest research at Dudley Smith Farm
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — Stay informed on current agriculture practices and the latest research taking place at Dudley Smith Farm during the annual Winter Meeting. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County Office located at 1120 N....
a group of people having a discussion outside sitting in the grass
Local Climate Stewards can lead to big changes with new environmental program
URBANA, Ill. — Climate change is a complex global challenge, but local action has an important role in empowering communities and building resiliency. The new University of Illinois Extension Climate Steward course trains environmental stewards to communicate about climate change and engage in...
A plate filled with a variety of holiday cookies of shapes, colors, and flavors sitting on a wooden table next to evergreen holiday décor.
Sugar and spice make everything nice
URBANA, Ill. — Sugar and spice make everything nice, especially in holiday treats. But do you know where sugar and spice come from?Plants make the sugar glucose during the process of photosynthesis. Certain plants can take excess glucose, create sucrose, and then store it in either the...
Group of award winners.
‘Taste of Extension’ connects community with life-changing resources
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension has connected every county in Illinois with life-changing research to improve lives for more than a century. However, many community members are unaware of the variety of local Extension programs for all ages. To raise awareness about...