Illinois at increased risk of drought conditions
Parts of northeast, western, and central Illinois have been much drier than normal in the past four to six weeks, causing dry soils and lower streamflow. Perennials, gardens, and young trees in these areas have begun to show some response to the dryness, requiring more frequent watering than...
Summer-long University of Illinois Agronomy Days kick off May 20
URBANA, Ill. — Last year, the University of Illinois tried something new with its longstanding Agronomy Day. After more than six decades, the single-day ag education event was no more. Instead, the Department of Crop...
Three Whiteside County 4-H Members Awarded 4-H Support Fund Scholarships
Three Whiteside County 4-H members were awarded 4-H Support Fund scholarships in recognition of their commitment to 4-H and its values. All three awardees have been 4-H members from a young age and have participated in various project areas and activities, including livestock, veterinary science...
Discover how to increase Illinois pollinators through thoughtful garden design
URBANA, Ill. — Pollinators are vital to both plant and human life on Earth. In recent years, pollinator populations have declined dramatically, which has prompted an immediate need for their protection and perpetuation on the landscape.
...
Extension to Offer Growing Horticulture in Northwest Illinois Series
Growing Horticulture in Northwest Illinois is for anyone interested in learning more about gardening, growing food in a home or community garden, or looking for ideas for the upcoming growing season. University of Illinois Extension is pleased to announce this free gardening series starting in...
Master Gardeners in Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties Answer Horticulture Questions
What is causing my plants to die? Will these insects destroy my vegetable garden? What perennials are best suited for my yard? What tree will give me the best shade? How much fertilizer should I put on my yard? If these questions bothered you last year or might pertain to you this year, you...
Lee County Master Gardener Plant Sale to Support Extension Programs
Fill your gardens with growing things and your heart with a giving attitude. Saturday, May 20, the Lee County Master Gardeners will host their annual Plant Sale from 8-11 a.m. at the Lee County 4-H Center near Amboy.
All proceeds benefit Extension programs offered by Lee County. Master...
Keep food safe during severe weather
URBANA, Ill. – Many communities across the Midwest have already begun experiencing severe weather as warm, humid...
Make time to be inspired by nature's lessons
URBANA, Ill. — Spending time in nature allows people to take in the world around them. In today's busy world, learning how to hit pause to take lessons from nature and explore the benefits of outdoor activities is vital. University of Illinois Extension...
Plant trees for every season
URBANA, Ill. – In a landscape, trees accomplish multiple tasks, from shading our homes to being a home for wildlife. They do everything from providing food to conserving water as well as contributing to our health and community well-being. As trees provide physical, environmental, and emotional...
4-H youth honored for career achievements, leadership
URBANA, Ill. – 4-H youth across the state have been honored for their career achievements in the 4-H program.
The State 4-H Experience Award offers recognition for members who took part in activities and events in the categories of Participation, Community Service, Leadership, and...
Youth hone decision-making skills in state equine contest
GALVA, Ill. – Youth from around the state demonstrated their specialized equine knowledge at the Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest on Feb. 18 at the Black Hawk College East Campus.
In this contest, youth judge...
How have Illinois soils changed over 120 years? U of I scientist needs your help
URBANA, Ill. – When he heard an old barn on the University of Illinois campus was scheduled for demolition, soil scientist Andrew Margenot went to investigate. Inside, on dusty shelves, he discovered a time capsule in the form of thousands of jars of soil from around the state, some dating as...
Illinois Extension to create holistic regenerative ag course
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois’ agriculture industry is rooted in its soil. Now, University of Illinois Extension is continuing to invest in the earth by developing a regenerative agricultural program to bring healthy soil practices to farms and gardens statewide.
The North Central Region...
7 tips to reduce spread of norovirus during stomach flu season
The stomach flu is likely caused by norovirus, a group of related viruses affecting the gastrointestinal tract. This highly contagious virus has several strains and spreads quickly from person to person, causing mayhem...
Ogle County 4-H Penny Carnival Set
Looking for a fun, inexpensive way to spend a Saturday evening with your kids or grandkids? Put the Ogle County 4-H Penny Carnival on your March schedule!
4-H Penny Carnival is set for March 18 from 5-8 p.m. at the Blackhawk Center, 1101 W. Jefferson St, Oregon. This annual...
Be part of a successful deer donation program
URBANA, Ill. – In response to rising food and meat prices and the challenges food pantries have in obtaining meat, University of Illinois Extension, along with key partners, launched the Illinois Deer Donation Program in 2022. This 12-county pilot program fought food insecurity by matching...
Illinois Strong Couples program earns Extension Excellence Award
URBANA, Ill. – Unmitigated, chronic relationship distress can significantly impair the health and well-being of individuals, their families, and the broader community. A University of Illinois Extension program was recently honored for its innovative approach to offer education and coaching for...
