News Releases

Keep deer away from your plants this fall
Deer can wreak havoc on plants during fall and winter months. University of Illinois Extension offers advice to help homeowners reduce damage from deer. Exclusion "Fences offer the best way to control deer damage in certain situations; however, large-scale...
Extension initiative supports urban ag programs, career paths for youth
URBANA, Ill. – Advanced food science technologies, combined with a growing focus on food security and sustainable farming, are expanding Illinois agriculture potential from rural to rooftop. Urban agriculture contributes to local food security, small business development, youth development, and...
tractor in field at night
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards. Safety and health of workers, including making time for...
Lee County 4-H’ers receive recognition for 4-H Fair Achievements
AMBOY,Ill.-This summer was unlike any our 4-H’ers have ever seen. Well, unlike any of us have ever seen! But, our kids persevered and adapted to the changes we had to make for them to show off the hard work they put in learning about the topics that spark them. With just about a month to make...
Mobile app supports youth development on the go
Teachable moments come in all shapes and sizes. Now, when those unexpected moments occur, parents and educators can rely on the new Terrific Teachable Moments mobile app to help them take advantage in convenient and meaningful ways....
Top speakers compete in virtual 4-H state contest
URBANA, Ill. – This summer was different than past summers for Jordi Oliver. The 18-year-old Massac County 4-H member would typically fill her summer days with feeding, fitting, and showing cattle. Show mornings would start with hot coffee and walks from the tie-outs. While fewer days started by...
In a summer of change, 4-H members focus on what matters most
URBANA, Ill. – In May, Jenna Wheeler and her family had a big decision to make. With a barn full of show pigs and goats bound for the summer showring, and a cascade of cancellations due to coronavirus pandemic, what should the family do? Raising livestock is expensive, but some of those...
National 4-H Week perfect time to register as alum
URBANA, Ill. – Each year, 4-H members across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week, joining 6 million other 4-H members of the country’s premiere youth development program. This year, the celebration runs Oct. 4 to 10. University of Illinois...
Take steps to prevent farm grain bin accidents
DECATUR, Ill. – Grain bin accidents happen quickly. In a matter of seconds, anyone can be suffocated by moving grain. Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations, according to the National Safety...
Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties Announce 4-H State Fair Awards
University of Illinois Extension has released the winners for the virtual state 4-H general project show.  These 4-H projects were judged at the local 4-H virtual shows and were chosen to advance to the state fair. All qualifying youth exhibiting in the state general project show will...