News Releases

Person holding two chickens and smiling at the camera in a chicken coop.
Register for a local 2024 Certified Livestock Manager Training session
URBANA, Ill. — Depending on an operation’s size, livestock manager training certification is required for many Illinois production livestock facilities. Having certified individuals on staff strengthens an operation through shared knowledge and building conversations with individuals responsible...
group of Master Gardener volunteers standing behind a table full of seeds
Kendall County Master Gardeners host free seed swap
YORKVILLE, Ill. – Get free seeds and free advice to plan your 2024 gardens at the seventh annual Kendall County Master Gardener Community Seed Swap on Saturday, Feb. 3 in Yorkville. “Seed Swap participants can choose from a variety of free seeds, including vegetables, flowers, herbs, and...
a vegetable garden in a neighborhood
Scaling up urban agriculture: Research team outlines roadmap
URBANA, Ill. — Urban agriculture has the potential to decentralize food supplies, provide environmental benefits like wildlife habitat, and mitigate environmental footprints, but researchers have identified knowledge gaps regarding both the benefits and risks of urban agriculture and the social...
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Opportunity to learn practical money management strategies
URBANA, Ill. — Navigating financial management can often seem overwhelming and intimidating, particularly for those uncertain about how to begin. Studies have shown that financial stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, having access to practical...
Several different succulent plants in a small planter
Did you forget to water your plants? Try low-maintenance succulents
URBANA, Ill. — Liven up your home this winter by introducing carefree and cheery succulents. Succulents offer interesting shapes and colors with their unique fleshy, plump leaves. The best part is they are relatively simple to care for if you can provide ample light. A few easy-care...
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Learn tips for a healthy pregnancy, toddler nutrition
URBANA, Ill. — The 1,000 days between a person's pregnancy and their child's second birthday offer a unique opportunity to build a healthier and more prosperous future, so knowing how to care for mother and baby during this period is vital. The University of Illinois Extension...
Agriculture Climate Tools Workshop
Weather a changing climate on the farm now and in the future
URBANA, Ill. — The only thing certain about modern farming is that things are always changing, and today’s weather isn’t your grandparents’ weather. Growing seasons are shifting, and extreme weather events like storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires are becoming more common. University of...
a corgi dog standing in deep snow
Keep dogs safe this winter
URBANA, Ill. — As the days inch further and further into winter and frigid temperatures, Dr. Pavlovsky, director of the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine South Clinic, has important...
Five adults standing
U of I Extension Honors Kendall Master Gardeners
Volunteers give more than 1,000 hours of service in 2023 YORKVILLE, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension celebrated its Kendall County Master Gardeners with an appreciation night at the end of the growing season. The dedicated volunteer group has already completed more than 1,000...
Group of kids and teens with medallions around their necks
Kendall County 4-H celebrates youth experiences, achievements
PLANO, Ill. – Each year, Kendall County 4-H members earn scholarships and awards for their project work, leadership, and community service through the local and state 4-H programs. Recipients were honored at the annual 4-H Achievement Night celebration Nov. 17 at Plano High School. “We...
A group of four women accepting an award
Volunteers, supporters honored by Kendall County 4-H
PLANO, Ill. – Kendall County 4-H celebrated its volunteers and supporters across the county at its annual 4-H Achievement Night at Plano High School on Nov. 17. “These passionate people may lead community 4-H clubs or special interest clubs, volunteer at 4-H shows or events, or sponsor 4...
4-H volunteer coach and three teenage 4-H members
4-H members advance to national poultry contest and build lifelong skills
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Four Illinois 4-H members traveled to the 2023 National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in November to learn through activities and contests, which are designed to introduce participants from across the country to the poultry industry. This annual event recognizes 4-H...