News Releases

A group of perennial plants in pots grouped together to overwinter outdoors.
Overwintering potted plants
URBANA, Ill. — Perennial plants being overwintered in pots are subjected to much harsher conditions compared to those in the soil. Because of this, they can be damaged and killed. Fortunately, there are some steps to try to get these plants through the winter and enjoy them again come spring....
Extension educator teaching an in person class with audiencie
Illinois Extension's health education transforms lives in Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. — In line with Illinois' land-grant mission, University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, fosters knowledge, and builds partnerships to support individuals and communities. In 2023, the team members working in Extension's Family and Consumer Sciences program areas...
An elderly woman assists an old man in pain
Learn useful strategies for chronic pain management
URBANA, Ill. — Pain is the body's warning signal that something is wrong. Patients and physicians collaborate to identify and treat the underlying cause at the first signs. However, over time, patients may be diagnosed with chronic pain. According to the ...
Senior winners pose with banners.
4-H Livestock Skillathon prepares youth for careers in animal agriculture
Urbana, Ill. – Sixty 4-H youth participated in the State 4-H Livestock Skillathon in the Stock Pavilion on University of Illinois campus. Participants went through the contest and then participated in a learning workshop to better prepare for next year’s contests in the summer and fall. ...
"I voted" stickers arranged on a table
Elections are stressful, Illinois Extension provides resources for parents
Bourbonnais, Ill. – With the imminent election, many parents are asking how they can talk to their kids about the current political climate in America, the election, and how they can answer questions from their kids about if their voice really matters. “Youth understand and hear more...
Two people in a boat with nets on poles watch as dozens of carp jump out of the water
Study: Invasive silver carp reduce movement in Chicago-area water
URBANA, Ill. — Invasive silver carp have been spreading throughout the Mississippi River Basin since their introduction a half-century ago. Yet, try as they might, the fish have not advanced beyond a particular stretch of the Illinois River north of Kankakee. Research from the...
a woman draws a bat with chalk
First bat celebration takes flight to raise awareness about conservation
URBANA, Ill. — Bats are an iconic symbol of spooky season, and more than 800 people attended the first Central Illinois Bat Festival on Sept. 28 in Urbana for a celebration of all things batty, including exhibits on bat conservation, guest speakers, activities for kids, and an evening bat walk...
Brooke Katcher and Lindsay Mahoney
Harvest is stressful, the community says thanks
MORRIS, Ill. – As farmers throughout Grundy, Kankakee, and Kendall Counties work diligently to bring in another harvest, University of Illinois Extension and the Kendall-Grundy and...