Youth leaders ready to meet ag challenges today and tomorrow
URBANA, Ill. -- High school students developed the skills and knowledge needed to face challenges in agriculture both as teen leaders today and as future careers tomorrow at the recent National 4‑H Youth Summit on Agri-Science....
You belong here. Diverse STEM professionals share about the STEM field
DECATUR, Ill.— The science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields currently lack diversity. Youth interested in entering the STEM field should be encouraged to do so, regardless of gender, orientation, or race. When we increase inclusivity, we increase creativity. Exposure and...
Youth come together to make their mark in the livestock industry
URBANA, Ill.— Illinois teens will gather to gain hands-on experience in the livestock field in this year’s Illinois 4-H Junior Livestock Conference on April 24 and 25. The theme of this year’s conference is “Making Your Mark,” highlighting the roles and skills that youth can take in...
The time is right to plant cool season vegetables
URBANA, Ill. – Across Illinois, experienced gardeners are blocking dates on their calendars based on expected thaw dates and anticipated harvest times.
...
Take the electric pressure cooker out of the box, help is here!
DECATUR, Ill.- Busy families looking to save time and stress are purchasing electric pressure cookers, a safer alternative to the traditional stovetop pressure cooker. But while electric pressure cookers might be safer, learning how to use them is often a daunting task.
Illinois...
Volunteers help youth feel welcomed, empowered in 4-H programming
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports relies heavily on adult volunteers taking the lead in the various disciplines, ultimately making the county program successful. Registration is open for two statewide Shooting Sports Leader Certification sessions on June 5 and July 24.
The...
Grow your green thumb this spring with free online gardening classes
URBANA, Ill. – Brush off the trowel and get ready for spring with University of Illinois Extension’s Four Seasons Gardening series starting in March.
Four Seasons Gardening is one of Illinois Extension’s most popular gardening series that has...
New program addresses issues of health access, understanding for Illinois residents
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – As families around the world lived through the rise and spread of COVID-19, countless Illinois communities faced a frightening reality: they were not equipped to mount the complex public health response the situation required. Many community leaders, medical centers, and...
Healthy forests start with single tree, hands-on landowners
URBANA, Ill. – The forests of Illinois are diverse, whether it’s a backyard with a few tall trees kids play under, an acre for firewood that is also home to deer and other wildlife, or a timber stand that will eventually be harvested and sold.
Just in time for spring, the Illinois...
Illinois 4-H staff evaluate options for summer 2021 exhibitions
URBNA, Ill. – In 2020, more than 400 Illinois 4-H competitive events, exhibitions, and shows went virtual, providing a positive youth development experience while protecting our members, volunteers, and staff. While the 2021 4-H...
Illinois Extension leads efforts to address food insecurity in DeWitt and Piatt Counties
DECATUR, Ill.— The UDSA defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. Feeding America’s 2018 “Map the Meal Gap” study estimates food insecurity in DeWitt and Piatt counties at approximately 8 percent.
University of Illinois...
Addressing racial injustice and disparities focus of new Illinois 4-H initiative
URBANA, Ill. – As the nation grappled with issues of social justice and racial equity, Illinois 4-H leadership intensified their commitment to understanding the experiences of staff, volunteers, and students in these specific areas. To create an...
Follow cottage food laws when selling at farmers markets
URBANA, Ill – Have you considered selling your homemade foods at a farmers market? Basic guidelines outline what growers and vendors must observe in preparation for farmers market sales.
Cottage food operations can be a simple way to generate income from home. The...
Stay safe on the farm this planting season
URBANA, Ill. – Spring is characterized by a fury of activity on farms. In the rush to get crops in the ground, farmers may not have safety and health as a priority.
Learn how to prevent common farm injuries and illness during this critical time at a free online webinar by...
Is your supervisor certified in food protection?
DECATUR, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Public Health requires all food establishments be supervised by a Certified Food Protection Manager during hours of operation. This March, University of Illinois Extension in Macon County is offering the state-mandated Certified...