News Releases

Learn to grow with fall Master Gardener online training
URBANA, Ill. — From small farms and rural towns to the suburbs and inner-city, more than 2,600 trained Master Gardeners put their mission of “helping others learn to grow” into practice around Illinois through community service...
What lurks under the dirt?: Call before you dig
Instead of hitting pay dirt, you will pay if you hit an underground line SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — August 11 is National Safe Digging Day, also known as 811 Day. The observance reminds anyone considering an outdoor project that breaks ground to get underground utilities...
Storm-damaged trees may not be savable
URBANA, Ill. Severe thunderstorms, tornados, and strong winds sometimes damage trees, flowers, and lawns. An EF-3 tornado that hit Northern Illinois in June destroyed several 100-year-old trees. Homeowners in Woodridge and Naperville struggled to find the best ways to clean up and...
entrance sign at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center
Dixon Springs research takes center stage at upcoming forums
DIXON SPRINGS, Ill. – Research drives change for the agricultural industry. Current research projects from Dixon Springs Agricultural Center will be showcased monthly.  The first educational forum begins at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 5 and return the first Thursday of each month...
Extension’s strategic realignment means more help for Illinois families
URBANA, Ill. – Throughout history, families have grappled with how to manage chronic health conditions, eat well, balance a family budget, and create a stable beginning for their youngest family members. But modern families are faced with a new set of challenges layered on top of the long-...
Franklin County youth place in 4-H livestock and animal shows
BENTON, Ill. – Hard work, quality care, and dedication paid off as our 4-H members showcased their animals at this year's Franklin County Fair. Following the 2020 summer of virtual livestock exhibits, participants were anxious for the return of in-person shows. The events provided...
Franklin County youth place in 4-H shows
BENTON, Ill. – Creativity and skills were on full display as Franklin County members shared their annual projects at various 4-H shows including the general show, crops show, clothing show, foods show, horticulture and floriculture show. Following the 2020 summer of virtual exhibits,...
2021 Summer Twilight Series - Bauman Family Farm
University of Illinois Extension is excited to team up with Grant and Casey Bauman to host the fourth and final twilight meeting at Bauman Family Farms in Vienna, on Monday, August 16, 2021, starting at 6 p.m. University of Illinois Extension Educators Bronwyn Aly, Katie Bell, and Nathan...
Geothermal systems bring smaller footprint to scalable, renewable energy
URBANA, Ill. – As Illinois advances towards its goal of converting all energy systems to 100% renewable energy by 2050, it recognizes that other energy sources besides solar and wind are necessary to reach the state’s future demands. Geothermal energy could be the key to replacing...