Jackson County 4-H youth place in 2025 general show
MURPHYSBORO, Ill. – Creativity and skills were recently on display as Jackson County members shared their annual projects at the 4-H general show. Youth were judged in visual arts, photography, food and nutrition, floriculture, and more.4-H members that...
Jackson and Williamson County 4-H youth place in animal shows
MURPHYSBORO, Ill. – Local youth were excited to gather at the Jackson County Extension Office to participate in the 4-H horse show on June 18, and all other animal shows on June 20. During these events, 4-H members shared their knowledge of cats, dogs, lizards, rabbits, and other...
When natural curiosity takes root, Illinois communities thrive
The word “community” is often used to describe both people and nature, and for good reason. Each are groups of individuals sharing a space as they live and grow. It’s in this same spirit of collective...
Get to know Illinois grasses in summer plant identification series
URBANA, Ill. — Grasses play a big role in natural ecosystems — from controlling soil erosion to supporting pollinators to providing food for livestock — but telling one from another isn’t always easy. This summer,...
Randolph County 4-H youth place in 2026 livestock and animal shows
SPARTA, Ill. – Local youth have been working hard and were excited to get in the show ring at the Perry County Fairgrounds to exhibit their beef, swine, sheep, and goats during the annual 4-H Livestock Show. A few days prior, many 4-H members also participated in a 4-H Small Pets...
Perry County 4-H youth place in 2026 livestock and animal shows
PINCKNEYVILLE, Ill. – Local youth were excited to gather in the show barn at the Perry County Fairgrounds to exhibit beef, swine, sheep, and goats during the annual 4-H Livestock Show during the Perry County Fair. A few days prior, many 4-H members also participated in a 4-H Small...
Spring into action Woodsy Owl style
Johnson County, Ill. — Volunteers gathered at Dutchman Lake on June 5, 2026, for the fourth Trash Blast of the year, wrapping up the spring season of community-driven cleanup efforts focused on protecting and...
New webinar series empowers Illinois communities with trusted health expertise
URBANA, Ill. — Current technology puts health information at our fingertips, but not all of it is reliable. As misleading content spreads quickly online, communities need clear, science‑based guidance more than ever. That’s why educators, researchers, and community partners are collaborating to...
Illinois 4-H youth showcase creativity, confidence at State Fashion Revue
NORMAL, Ill. — Illinois 4-H members from across the state showcased their creativity, craftsmanship, and personal style during the Illinois 4-H State Fashion Revue on June 6 at Heartland Community College.The event featured youth ages 8 to 18 competing in junior and senior divisions...
Illinois 4-H youth earns national recognition for excellence in livestock education
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H member Molly McCalla of Madison County has been awarded a $2,500 Youth for the Quality Care of Animals scholarship in recognition of her commitment to animal care, leadership, and agricultural education.McCalla was one of 12 students selected nationwide to...
How farmers respond to climate-related risk
URBANA, Ill. — As climate change increases the frequency of drought, excessive rainfall, and other extreme weather events, farmers face growing uncertainty about crop production. Understanding how farmers perceive and respond to that uncertainty can help improve agricultural...
2026 Illinois Extension Master Naturalist enthusiasts become interns after training
BENTON, Ill – Illinois Extension is dedicated to strengthening the bond between local communities and the natural world. The Illinois Master Naturalist program helps cultivate a new generation of learners who are connected to the outdoors while offering opportunities for personal growth, service...
Illinois Extension hosts inaugural Dixon Springs Agricultural Center Field Day on July 14
SIMPSON, Ill. – Community and agriculture come together for an evening of learning and connection during the inaugural Dixon Springs Agricultural Center Field Day on July 14. The experience will begin at 5 p.m. and includes a farm-to-table meal featuring food grown and produced at the Ag...
ACES Agronomy Days series returns to University of Illinois
With summer just around the corner, Agronomy Days will soon return to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The season-long series teaches Illinois growers the latest...
Explore key benefits, challenges of using agricultural drones at Illinois Extension field day
URBANA, Ill. — Technology continues to advance and modernize today’s farming practices. Drone use in farming has gained steady traction and interest, particularly in the application of agricultural inputs such as pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.Attendees can learn more at a field-...
