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...

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...

Practical tips to manage your diabetes
URBANA, Ill.  –  For the millions of Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle is critical in managing the disease for improved quality of life. ...

Prevent combine fires this harvest
URBANA, Ill. – Combine fires are one of the most common and expensive types of fire incidents in production agriculture. They can also cause substantial setback during harvest. "Combine fires often start behind the operator...

Make your 2020 harvest your safest one yet
URBANA, Ill. –  2020 has had its own unique set of challenges, but harvest doesn't have to be one of them. University of Illinois Extension offers these tips for a safe harvest. Perform routine machinery upkeep ahead of schedule. When the season gets busy,...

Select and plant spring-flowering bulbs now
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Explore small business export options during free Extension webinar
URBANA, Ill. – Selling abroad can be intimidating, but may be just the boost small businesses facing lasting financial challenges need. University of Illinois Extension is co-hosting a free online webinar covering the fundamentals and benefits of exporting. Local, state, and federal...

Learn in Your Lawn Chair at the University of Illinois Extension
STERLING, Ill.,–   Have you ever planted garden plants in a straw bale? Or wanted to learn about watercolor painting? Have you thought about trying an escape room or wanted to learn more about mindfulness? University of Illinois Extension is offering these programs and more at the...

New research database driven by growing hemp industry
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DIY Halloween Make-up Workshop offered by local Master Gardeners
STERLING, Ill-Is your trick or treater a cute fuzzy tiger or a scary ghost or goblin? Fantastic make-up is just as essential as the costume itself. Join University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners and learn how to make your own Halloween make-up using common pantry items and take a sample...

Attend astronomy webinar to learn more about the night sky
STERLING, Ill.-Calling all amateur astronomers, join University of Illinois extension in an online zoom webinar as we explore the night sky. Take a tour of the stars and discover their lifecycle. Learn how to identify stars, constellations and planets, and delve into some...

4-H Candy Making SPIN Club begins September 26 in Morrison
MORRISON, Ill.- Calling all candy loving youth ages 8-13 to join University of Illinois Extension, Whiteside County 4-H for an in person, but safe, candy making SPIN Club. Enjoy making sweet and scrumptious treats to take home and share with your family. Three 2-hour sessions will be offered...

New report shows UI Extension generates value 10 times its budget
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Harvest abundant squash for food, decoration
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How ponds can save a home: Dry hydrants and rural fire protection
URBANA, Ill, – Duane Friend grew up on a farm and knows the devastation rural fires can have on structures. Lack of nearby water supplies increased the danger of total structure losses. House or barn fires often...

Tree stand safety for deer hunters starts on the ground
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Taking care of the caregiver; online webinar addresses challenges
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Small lawn tasks now may mean beautiful lawns next spring
KANKAKEE, Ill. – Fall is the perfect time to repair any lawn damage. As lawns go dormant, a few simple techniques may make the difference for beautiful spring lawns, says James Theuri, University of Illinois Extension educator.  "Fall weather means there is less watering...