purple coneflowers with a monarch butterfly

Building a strong and connected community

Title

Illinois Extension building a strong and connected community

As we move forward in 2026, let our hands continue to sow the seeds of knowledge and our hearts beat in unison, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness. Together, we'll continue to shape a future where individuals and families in Carroll, Lee, and Whiteside Counties thrive.

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Serving Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties

4-H and Youth

4-H Shows & County Fairs

Master Naturalist Program

School and Community Programs

Announcements and Highlights

The first of 6 Nature Explorers meetings is March 24 at Franklin Creek State Natural Area.

Summer Youth Programs

There is so much to learn and do with 4-H this summer! Check back for new classes and events as the season progresses.

Find a Session

Master Gardener Training

We are excited to offer in-person Master Gardener Training this summer at the Whiteside County Extension office! Training starts June 12.

Learn more about becoming a Master Gardener

Soil Testing Kits

Soil Testing Kits are now available, contact our offices for more information.

Events

Yes, You Can: Water Bath and Pressure Canning Basics

June 11, 2026

County

Winnebago

Whiteside County Master Gardener Training

June 12, 2026 - August 28, 2026

County

Whiteside

Carroll

Lee

Preserving Practice: Pressure Canning Green Beans

June 13, 2026

County

Winnebago

4-H Memorial Camp Youth Summer Session 3

June 14, 2026 - June 18, 2026

More Events

News Releases

June 10, 2026

New webinar series empowers Illinois communities with trusted health expertise
URBANA, Ill. — Current technology puts health information at our fingertips, but not all of it is reliable. As misleading content spreads quickly online, communities need clear, science‑based guidance more than ever. That’s why educators, researchers, and community partners are collaborating to...

June 10, 2026

Illinois 4-H youth showcase creativity, confidence at State Fashion Revue
NORMAL, Ill. — Illinois 4-H members from across the state showcased their creativity, craftsmanship, and personal style during the Illinois 4-H State Fashion Revue on June 6 at Heartland Community College.The event featured youth ages 8 to 18 competing in junior and senior divisions...

Molly McCalla holding a lamb in her arms.

June 8, 2026

Illinois 4-H youth earns national recognition for excellence in livestock education
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H member Molly McCalla of Madison County has been awarded a $2,500 Youth for the Quality Care of Animals scholarship in recognition of her commitment to animal care, leadership, and agricultural education.McCalla was one of 12 students selected nationwide to...

Flowers with Butterfly and Bee Pollinators

June 4, 2026

Pollinators: If You Plant It, They Will Come
Join University of Illinois Extension, Jo Daviess County Master Gardener, Madelynn Wilharm for this program to celebrate National Pollinator Week on Wednesday, June 24 at 10 a.m. This program is being held at the Galena Community Garden, 715 S. Dodge Street, Galena, IL. Pre-registration is...

A crop field irrigation system releasing water over experimental plots at the Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan.

May 29, 2026

How farmers respond to climate-related risk
As climate change increases the frequency of drought, excessive rainfall, and other extreme weather events, farmers face growing uncertainty about crop production. Understanding how farmers perceive and respond to that uncertainty can help improve agricultural policy and climate...

More News Releases

Building a strong and connected community

Title

Illinois Extension building a strong and connected community

Serving Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties