News Releases

4-H Transitioning Back to In-Person Workshops
  After a year of not having face-to-face workshops, 4-H youth are now able to attend workshops with fellow members and friends.  Although, there will be a set number that can attend.  Attendees will be following the IDPH COVID restrictions, masks and social distancing will be required...
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 amphibians can safely cross....
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....
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 shaping the...
Illinois youth learn skills to become healthy living changemakers
URBANA, Ill. – The past year has presented many challenges to people's physical, emotional, and mental health. Risk factors such as poverty, neglect, and violence can make the challenges more intense, and social isolation and uncertainty from COVID-19 may continue to negatively impact community...
Assortment of cool-season grasses add beauty to spring
URBANA, Ill. – In spring, cool-season grasses grasses play an important role in providing habitat and food sources as they emerge, grow, and flower. Learn to identify the wide variety of grasses in a free online webinar by University of Illinois Extension.  "Grass identification doesn't...
Debbie Fearn joins Illinois Extension Master Gardener Program
For the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program, the last four decades can be measured by the millions of volunteer hours given to help bring horticultural help to communities across the state. This year marks the 46th anniversary of the Illinois Master Gardener program...
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...
Extension has been busy offering 21 Farmer testing opportunities!
Extension has been busy offering 21 Farmer testing opportunities! We have been working with the Illinois Department of Agriculture and local Farm Bureaus to provide in-person private and commercial pesticide applicator testing in our 5-county unit.   Testing has been conducted in all 5...