Learn how to attract pollinators to your garden and why it is important
MONTICELLO, Ill. – About one-third of the food and beverages we consume depend on pollinators. Apples, cucumbers, herbs, watermelons, chocolate, and coffee need animals to pollinate them. Pollinators also contribute to plant and animal diversity in our natural areas. Learn how to attract...
Planning, designing a native garden
URBANA, Ill. – Those who love gardening, wildflowers, or who are tired of mowing expansive lawns should consider creating a native plant garden.
Gemini Bhalsod, a horticulture educator with...
New opportunity for teens to hang out with other teens
CLINTON, Ill. – Is your teen ready to get out and have some fun? Then they don’t want to miss this chance to engage with other teens, hang out with a purpose, and become part of the team that sets the pace for those around them. 4‑H civic engagement programs empower teens to be well-informed...
State 4-H Hippology contest fosters passion for all things equine
URBANA, Ill. -- In 4-H, learning about horses means much more than learning to ride. Young people with a passion for horses participated in recent state educational contests related to the equine industry. 4-H’s educational programs enhance members’ knowledge of horse health, breed...
Extension is here to share in your gardening triumphs and woes
DECATUR, Ill. —Are those black spots on your maple tree leaves? Why don’t your roses bloom? Do you get insect infestations in your vegetable garden? You have questions. We have answers. Gardeners from beginner to expert can gather to answer questions, share pictures, and discuss gardening issues...
DeWitt County 4-H Foundation awarded $2500 America's Farmers Grow Communities grant
CLINTON, ILL. – Local farmer Andy Hedrick recently directed a $2,500 America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation, sponsored by Bayer Fund, to the DeWitt County 4-H Foundation.
The DeWitt County 4-H Foundation donated the funds to the DeWitt County 4-H Fair Board for use in the...
Learn how to prune your shrubs with 'cutting hedge' technology
MONTICELLO, Ill. - Do you have shrubs in your yard? How and when should you prune them? What can you do to ensure shrubs are healthy for years to come? Join University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Sarah...
Mandated Food Protection Manager class offered in Macon County
DECATUR, Ill.— Foodservice businesses in Illinois must have a certified Food Protection Manager on-site during operating hours. Cottage Food Operators also need to be certified. University of...
Does your child love nature and wildlife? Jr. Naturalist may be for them
DECATUR, Ill.—Children and teens are natural explorers. Encourage that curiosity while also giving them an opportunity to rejuvenate, alleviate stress, exercise, and socialize as they explore nature and wildlife.
In a joint effort between Macon County 4-H and the Macon County...
From hunt to plate, make a tasty dish of your wild game
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois hunters support the health of ecosystems, conservation efforts, and local economies. Successful hunts also provide lean, local protein for families and communities.
University of Illinois Extension...
Extension addresses lack of Wi-fi access for community
DECATUR, Ill.— According to the Federal Communications Commission’s Eight Broadband progress report, “approximately 9 million Americans- six percent of the population- still lack access to fixed broadband service at threshold speeds.” Rural areas account for approximately one-fourth of the...
Warmer temperatures rouse reptiles for spring migration
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois is world famous for its snakes. Every spring starting in March, Snake Road in the far southern reaches of the state closes to vehicles so migrating reptiles and...
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...