Alexis Barnes is a Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator serving DuPage, Kane, and Kendall Counties. Joining the University of Illinois Extension in June 2024, Alexis works with small farmers, non-profits, and community members to deliver research-based education and outreach for those involved in the local food system. Her programming and expert assistance focus on soil health, Integrated Pest Management, and general production-related concerns to specialty crops with a growing interest in livestock integration. 

Originally from Bartlett, Ill., Alexis earned a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Sustainability from Indiana State University and a Master of Science in Plant Science from South Dakota State University. Her agricultural experience includes working on a certified organic fruit and vegetable farm in Indiana, starting a food forest project at Indiana State University, and living on a 40-acre pizza and agritourism farm in South Dakota. Alexis has a passion for education and serving the community she grew up in, she enjoys connecting with stakeholders, and learning more about the local food system. 

Research Areas of Interest

Reduced tillage: cover crops, living mulch, no-till, soil tarping

Specialty crops: vegetables, small fruits, cut flowers, medicinal plants/herbs, beekeeping

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

USDA Certified Organic Procedures

Livestock integration (actively learning)

Professional Affiliations

American Society for Horticulture Science (ASHS)

Women in Food and Agriculture Network (WFAN)

Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI)

Northern Illinois Young Farmers Coalition (NIYFC)