Farm women are decision makers – Annie’s Project prepares them well
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Farm women are generating a cultural tide in American agriculture that is moving management, assets, and opportunities to a new wave of farmers across the country. At Annie’s Project courses, farm women become empowered to be better business partners or sole operators through...
4-H offers new nature-based family activities
PEKIN, Ill. - As Spring approaches in Illinois, many people are anxious for warmer weather that will allow them to spend more time outdoors. Although many people love being outdoors, it can sometimes be challenging to get children to spend time outside or to make the time to explore nature. A...
Pelleted seeds improve planting ease, germination rates
URBANA, Ill. – Tiny seeds provide challenges for gardeners trying to evenly space lettuce, onion, carrot, and herb seeds. Pelleted seeds are coated with a biodegradable material and easier to hold and plant.
The colorful coating also protects the seed, improving germination rates. Pre-...
Keep jumping worms from damaging lawns, gardens, natural areas
URBANA, Ill. – A new threat is invading Illinois. Jumping worms attack gardens, lawns, and natural areas with devastating results.
Illinois Extension forestry research specialist Chris Evans says the worms are voracious eaters that decrease soil quality and reduce organic matter....
Natural world guides archaeologists in their investigation of ancient people
URBANA, Ill. – People have lived in Illinois for over 15,000 years and have used the natural resources the state has to offer in different ways through time.
Archaeologists draw on many fields in natural resource sciences to understand the people of the past and how they lived....
Geothermal energy systems capture the power of the sun
URBANA, Ill. – Solar energy is not limited to solar panels. Geothermal energy represents another method of using solar energy to heat water and buildings and to generate electricity.
As the sun heats the earth’s surface, geothermal systems harvest this energy in a clean, efficient, and...
Performance Tested Bull Sale averages $4,372 on 46 lots
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – For 54 years, the Performance Tested Bull Sale has provided elite seedstock for cattle breeders. The 2022 sale held Feb. 24 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield averaged $4,372 on the 46 lots sold. The sale is a multi-breed sale and offers both older age-...
Be ready for severe weather before the sirens go off
URBANA, Ill. – Weather can change from blue skies to ominous clouds in an instant in Illinois. When the wail of an alert siren is heard, it’s a warning sign that should not be ignored.
Illinois Severe Weather Preparedness Week is Feb. 28 to March 4. The early awareness allows communities...
Log on for forestry expertise woodland owners can use
URBANA, Ill. – From managing woodlands so they can support native wildlife to dealing with tree damage and pests, University of Illinois Extension Forestry has the tools woodland owners need. The nine-part, weekly Forestry Spring Webinar...
Take heed of tornado warnings
URBANA, Ill. – As prime tornado season approaches, know what a tornado warning means and what to do.
The National Weather Service issues a tornado warning under two conditions, says Duane Friend, University of Illinois...
Stay safe during electrical storms
URBANA, Ill. – Exceeded only by floods, lightning is the second largest killer associated with storms. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, over 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes occur each year.
Duane Friend,...
High dew points increase severe weather chances
URBANA, Ill – Severe weather often occurs in March with dew point temperatures in the 50s or 60s. Duane Friend, University of Illinois Extension natural resources educator, explains the impact of dew point on weather.
Water vapor is the gas form of water. Air can only hold so much water...
Fulton County 4-H offers college scholarships
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Fulton County 4-H announces college scholarships being offered to Fulton County 4-H members.
Several scholarships, in various amounts, will be awarded to county 4-H members at his or her high school graduation or awards program. One group of scholarships is given in...
4-H teaches budding scientists about cover crops
PEKIN, Ill. - Young people can have fun while being a part of cutting-edge research in the new Cover Crops Scientist 4-H Special Interest (SPIN) Club. For over 100 years, 4-H has involved youth in the newest research and best-practices in science and agriculture – and this legacy continues today...
Educators learn about mentoring in the classroom at Teacher Tuesdays
PEKIN, Ill - In March, a virtual Teacher Tuesdays session will offer information about the Mentor Matching Engine. Developed by the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC), the Mentor Matching Engine (MME) is an online collaboration tool that connects Illinois high school students and...
Gardening enthusiasts invited to attend Gardeners’ BIG Day
PEKIN, Ill. - Despite what the groundhog “said” spring is coming quickly. Gardeners are ordering seeds and planning their gardens and landscape projects. Another sign spring is almost here is the annual Gardeners’ BIG Day presented by University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners.
...
Test private wells to ensure safe drinking water
URBANA, Ill. – A properly constructed and maintained water well can provide many years of trouble-free service, but over time, wells can deteriorate or become damaged, allowing surface contaminants to enter the water in the well. In addition, groundwater can become contaminated.
Safe...