Water trees wisely to beat winter woes
URBANA, Ill. — As autumn colors emerge, it may seem that trees are preparing for rest. However, when fall brings dry conditions instead of seasonal rains, trees can enter winter under stress. Fall droughts can be subtle but have lasting impacts. With timely care, trees can weather dry spells and...
Youth handlers shine at 2025 4-H state dog show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Dog Show was held on Oct. 4 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. Sixty-six 4-H members represented their home counties across Illinois in 118 individual runs made in partnership with their canine companion. Members who received a qualifying score at...
Start selecting 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Sale bulls
URBANA, Ill. — Seedstock breeders should be identifying bulls they plan to consign to the 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. The IPT Bull Sale is the leadoff event for the annual Illinois Beef Expo in...
Youth sharpen their skills at 2025 Illinois 4-H shooting sports state competitions
Jacksonville, IL — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports State Competitions wrapped up this September, bringing together top youth marksmen from across the state in a series of events that showcased precision, skill, and sportsmanship. Held annually in late August and throughout September, the...
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns
URBANA, Ill. — Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for its fourth season, in partnership with Feeding Illinois, Access Illinois Outdoors, ...
Fall soil amendment educational program to take place at Dewey Farm & Greenhouse
ELDORADO, Ill. – Growing a great garden starts with the soil. Fall soil preparation can be the key to a healthy, successful garden next spring! Join Extension educator, Bronwyn Aly, to learn about soil amendments, including cover crops, compost, manure, and more, on Tuesday, October...
Explore impact of local trees at Illinois Extension fall tree planting workshops
URBANA, Ill. — Communities with healthy, viable trees are more likely to have improved air quality, reduced stress, and added personal comfort for surrounding residents, nature, and wildlife. “As we all have recently felt, Midwest summers are hot, and trees are a crucial part of our...
Illinois 4-H’er selected as runner up for national 4-H award
Dahinda, Ill. – National 4-H Council has named Ellis Rogers of Knox County a national runner up for the 2025 4-H Youth in Action Award. Rogers, 18, is recognized for her achievements and leadership in equine science. Ellis is a 10-year member of the Williamsfield Town and...
Southern Illinois Master Gardeners Receive Awards at the Fiftieth Master Gardener Conference
URBANA, IL — Impactful projects making a positive difference in local communities did not go unnoticed at the 2025 University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Conference, held September 4-5 in Springfield. This year's annual conference marked 50 Years of the Master Gardener...
Drought is intensifying across Illinois
An extremely dry end to summer and start to fall has intensified the ongoing drought in central and southern Illinois and increased the fire and blowing dust risk as we approach harvest, according to Illinois State Climatologist...
Celebrate food safety month by exploring Extension resources
URBANA, Ill. — September marks National Food Safety Education Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safe food handling practices across all food system sectors, from farm to table. Whether people grow, process, sell, donate, or consume food, everyone has a role in reducing...
Superior Young Dairy Producer Award marks 30 Years of scholarships
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The 2025 Superior Young Dairy Producer Award (SYDPA) program was held Aug. 16 at the Illinois State Fair. Twelve 4-H dairy project members from across Illinois competed in the event, which promotes youth development, career preparation, and personal growth through increased...
