Revive your compost pile after winter
URBANA, Ill. – If you haven’t touched your compost bin or pile all winter, don’t worry, you are not alone! ...
Increase life span of urban trees
URBANA, Ill. – Urban communities responded to an increasing lack of interaction with nature by planting trees. Trees provide environmental benefits, along with their beauty, such as cooling buildings through shade and cleaning the air and water through filtration....
Start your spring landscape clean up
URBANA, Ill. – After the 2019 growing season, there is likely leftover landscape clean up needed besides the usual spring yard work....
Pollinator support tips for gardeners and homeowners
URBANA, Ill. – Pollinators have been in the news a lot the last few years due to their population declines. About 75% of all plant species are pollinated by animals and 90% of flowering plants, so pollinators are important parts of our ecosystems, says Ken Johnson, University of Illinois...
Start herb seeds indoors
URBANA, Ill. – Herbs are a favorite in most gardens, but transplants can be expensive. As an economical alternative, consider starting seeds indoors in early spring as warmer weather approaches.
Herbs can be started in March and be ready for transplanting into the garden in May,...
Get answers to pressing commercial ag questions
From pests to stress, farmers face mounting challenges that threaten profitability, production, and health. Learn strategies for minimizing loss and maximizing profit during a series of four free online webinars by University of Illinois Extension. Registration is required and available by...
Extension continues transition to online webinars, 4-H shows, events
URBANA, Ill. – As Illinois residents contemplate the impact of the coronavirus health pandemic on summer plans, University of Illinois Extension has released updated guidelines for Extension sponsored events and activities. The new guidelines continue to focus on the safety of event participants...
Calling all pollinator fans: University of Illinois seeks citizen scientists
For the second year, University of Illinois Extension is calling all lovers of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that keep our crops and gardens growing to join scientists in tracking their distribution and habitat use across the state. Potential volunteers may r...
Farmers needed for paid cover crop trial
URBANA, Ill. - Illinois farmers willing to participate in a paid cover crop demonstration trial are needed beginning in fall 2020. Participation is now open.
The Illinois Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program partners with university researchers and...
What's Next: legal challenges related to COVID-19 for local governments
Local officials and agency staff in Illinois need to stay current with potential legal challenges related to COVID-19. To help navigate this ever-changing landscape, University of Illinois Extension, partnering with the Illinois Association of County Board Members...
Strategies for minimizing land and water invasive species
Invasive species pose a serious threat to native species and natural ecosystems and cost the country billions of dollars to combat. Learn what is being done to address the serious issues of both land and water invasives...
Online webinar helps farmers market managers navigate strategies
MT. VERNON, Ill. - It's farmers market season and managers are faced with many unique challenges this year. Natalie Kenny Marquez, Illinois Farmers Market Association (IFMA), will provide...
Raise chickens in your own backyard
KANKAKEE, Ill. - As more families consider growing their own food, chickens are a popular choice for a fresh source of eggs. Learn the basics of caring for chickens, from housing to health in a free online webinar offered by University of Illinois...
Take a virtual hike through Shawnee's natural areas
DIXON SPRINGS RESEARCH CENTER, Ill. - The grandeur of famous natural wonders, such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon, inspires calls for...
Extension Thanks Area Volunteers for Sharing Knowledge and Time
ST. CHARLES, Ill. – Volunteer power is a strong force and resource globally, nationally and locally. This National Volunteer Week, University of Illinois Extension celebrates its local volunteers – including 4-H leaders, Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists and those who serve in various other...
Illinois Extension presses forward with planning for summer 4-H shows
URBANA, Ill. – As public health and government officials consider the next phase of managing the Coronavirus pandemic in Illinois, organizers of traditional summer events and activities are considering options. University of Illinois Extension, the...
Webinar offers best practices for disabilities in workforce development
URBANA, Ill. - Workforce development programs are now more equally accessible to persons with varying abilities, with the goal of helping every person prepare for, find, and maintain quality employment that pays a living wage and offers opportunities for advancement. ...
Learn tips for keeping your brain fit
URBANA, Ill. – Staying fit doesn’t only mean exercising and eating healthy foods. With age, it’s important to do activities which keep our brains fit and healthy, as well as our bodies. Beginning May 7, University of Illinois Extension will...
