News Releases

Expand understanding of vital health topics with cutting-edge research
URBANA, Ill. – Evolving advancements in health sciences require a connection to focused research to help communities and professionals stay informed on emerging health topics, disease prevention practices, and diagnoses. Dive deeper into specific health conditions, such as tinnitus...
Fall is for feathered friends, fireplaces
URBANA, Ill. – Birdseed and firewood are two common topics that show up every fall. Both take some planning to be successful. “Feeding the birds means starting earlier than later,” says Richard Hentschel, University of...
Prevent your risk for diabetes before it’s too late
URBANA, Ill. — Six in ten people gained weight during the pandemic, according to an American Psychological Association study. The risk of developing pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes may increase with...
Extension welcomes local students back for career field day
EWING, Ill.— Over 80 local high school and community college students had the opportunity to learn more about the field of agriculture during the annual Career and Technology Field Day recently held at the Ewing Demonstration Center. Since its inception six years ago, University of Illinois...
Natural lawn care made easy with new eco-friendly guide
URBANA, Ill. – Every summer weekend, like clockwork, the roar of lawnmowers fills neighborhoods across the state as homeowners and landscape companies try to keep up with the never-ending chore that is lawn care. ...
New grant bolsters Illinois agriculture, rural mental health initiatives
URBANA, Ill. – Farmers are stewards of the soil, their livestock, and their crops, but caring for the land means they often do not take time to care for themselves. Depression, anxiety, and suicide are more common in agricultural populations than the general public. With the Farm...
Some trees weather wet soils, floods better than others
URBANA, Ill. – The splendor of trees and shrubs comes from what is above ground, but don’t forget about what lies beneath. Poorly drained areas, easily identified after a downpour of rain, are not suitable for some trees or shrubs. “Soil plays a vital role in the...
Armyworms march into Illinois' fields, lawns, gardens
  URBANA, Ill. – Fall armyworm caterpillars are enjoying a bountiful meal at the expense of farmers and homeowners. Prevalent in the southern states, the adult moths move north to Illinois to mate and lay eggs. This year’s appearance is earlier and in higher...
Extension adds horticulture staff in northwest Illinois
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you’re tending a few well-loved houseplants, responsible for your home or business’ landscape, or growing backyard fruits and vegetables, gardening is challenging. The University of Illinois Extension ...
Tips for planting balled-burlapped trees for long-term health, success
URBANA, Ill. – Fall is a great time to plant trees, many of which are originally grown at a nursery either in a plastic container or in the ground before they are balled and burlapped. How the tree is grown in its first years and then planted affects the long-term health of the tree. ”...
Williamson County youth place in shooting sports competition
MARION, Ill.— Many local youth hit their mark while placing in the annual shooting sports competition in Marion. Following the 2020 summer of virtual exhibits and programs, participants were anxious to return to in-person competitions. Through the 4-H shooting sports program, youth learn...
Little Roots 4-H club begins to blossom in Williamson County
  MARION, Ill.— There’s something downright fun about digging in the dirt, and that’s exactly what happened with local youth as part of the Little Roots club that met at the Boyton Street Community Center over the summer....
Small bees attracted to small flowers
URBANA, Ill. – While the bumblebee is likely the most well-known pollinator, pollinators come in a variety of shapes, species, and sizes. “Many entomologists believe the tiny sweat bee nectaring on your flowering weed is just as important to a healthy ecosystem as the more well-known...