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Illinois Extension Strategic Plan

Illinois Extension engaged in a strategic planning process throughout 2024 that created opportunities for many voices to contribute their own vision for Illinois Extension’s future. We are confident that this process has synthesized the ideas of our entire community to create a compelling and forward-thinking strategic plan.

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Certified Food Protection Managers Course

This program meets the coursework and examination requirements set by the Illinois Department of Public Health. We offer courses within our unit throughout the year.

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Events

Gathering of the Gardeners

February 7, 2026

County

Christian

Jersey

Macoupin

Montgomery

Soap Making Workshop

February 10, 2026

County

Jersey

Dudley Smith Farm Winter Meeting 2026

February 10, 2026

County

Christian

Certified Food Protection Manager Course

February 12, 2026 - February 13, 2026

County

Montgomery

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News Releases

Woman showing two young kids and their mother some gardening information in a greenhouse.

February 5, 2026

Dig into spring gardening with confidence at local gardening programs
URBANA, Ill. — Gardening is an ever-evolving journey, and each growing season brings fresh experiences and strategies for both new and veteran gardeners. This spring, learn more gardening techniques and grow...

A child puts batteries into a glass container with other batteries

February 5, 2026

Know before you throw, new law expands free battery recycling options
URBANA, Ill. — After years of powering remotes, children’s toys, and other household devices, the final destination for used batteries is usually the junk drawer. Or worse, it is tossed in the trash can. Now,...

Green corn leaves and stalks growing in a field on a sunny, blue sky day

February 3, 2026

Illinois Extension Crop Management Conference equips agriculturalists for upcoming growing season
URBANA, Ill. — How individuals strategize their next farming season can differ from one farmer, landowner, producer, or industry professional to the next. University of Illinois Extension’s online-only Crop...

February 3, 2026

Genes from corn's wild ancestor change soil microbial community, improve sustainability
URBANA, Ill. — Corn bred with genes from wild relatives can reshape soil microbial communities and reduce nitrogen loss — with no yield reduction — according to new research from the University...

A person kneels down to check soybean plant progress in a field

February 2, 2026

New Focus on the Future meetings to help Illinois agriculture community build, sustain farm legacy
URBANA, Ill. — Every farm has an individual story to tell, and it is up to the generations of farmers living it to tell the tale. In 2026, University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Farm Bureau are...

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