News Releases

Looking into a row of planted, growing seedling trays under grow lights.
Get a jump start on spring by starting seeds at home
URBANA — As spring creeps closer and closer, gardeners start to get the itch to go outside and start digging in the dirt. While it may still be too early to do that, seed starting is a popular way to kick off the gardening season. Benefits of Starting SeedsSeeds started...
five public speaking winners with their ribbons next to a large 4-H clover
Local 4-H members impress at public speaking contest
As they say, practice makes perfect, and what better example of such than public speaking? Local 4-H members gathered the courage to present at the first unit-wide 4-H Public Speaking Contest hosted by Illinois Extension serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties on Monday,...
woman feeding cows hay
Annie's Project upskills women in agriculture
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ill. – If you’re a woman in agriculture looking to further your professional development and advance your skill sets, the Annie’s Project program was designed for you! Classes will be held at The Armory/Community Center located at 1522 Porter Avenue, Lawrenceville, IL, 62439....
diverse group of young people gardening
Spring into gardening with tools and tips at upcoming gardening programs
URBANA, Ill. — Spring is near, and your green thumb is ripe for gardening. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, growing nutrient-rich vegetables, fresh fruits, and aromatic herbs is more than just a way to fill your plate; it is like a badge of honor. Gardening...
a cover crop growing in a farm field
Farmers share how to keep valuable soil in fields
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ill. — When it comes to farming, there is no substitute for experience. This March, producers and landowners can connect with local Illinois farmers and learn from others’ hands-on knowledge on preventing soil loss in their fields at the Cultivating Conversations: Preventing Soil...
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
Tara Buerster presenting award to Jessica Simpson with Extension banner in background
Jessica Simpson receives Meritorious Support Service Award
ALBION, Ill. – Illinois Extension, serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties, is proud to announce that Jessica Simpson was awarded the Meritorious Support Service Award by the Illinois Alpha Nu Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Phi, a professional organization for Extension...
Fruit and Vegetable School
Fruit and Vegetable School connects local growers with industry experts
MT. VERNON, Ill. – Commercial fruit and vegetable growers face a lot of uncertainties. One thing is certain: University of Illinois Extension has the practical, current research to help you make those important production decisions. Get practical research-based information to make your specialty...
two men with a certficate
Extension recognizes employee excellence, commitment to mission
URBANA, Ill. — Across the state, more than 650 University of Illinois Extension employees work to serve the communities where they live and help tackle local issues with research-based solutions. Illinois Extension honored 11 outstanding individuals whose efforts demonstrate significant public...
award winners at conference
Five community engagement programs recognized for excellence
URBANA, Ill. — The core of University of Illinois Extension’s mission is to help individuals and communities improve by connecting them with life-changing research-based information. Every year, staff across the state offer thousands of in-person and remote programs to meet this mission....