News Releases

tractor in field at night
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards. Safety and health of workers, including making time for...
Mobile app supports youth development on the go
Teachable moments come in all shapes and sizes. Now, when those unexpected moments occur, parents and educators can rely on the new Terrific Teachable Moments mobile app to help them take advantage in convenient and meaningful ways....
National 4-H Week perfect time to register as alum
URBANA, Ill. – Each year, 4-H members across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week, joining 6 million other 4-H members of the country’s premiere youth development program. This year, the celebration runs Oct. 4 to 10. University of Illinois...
Take steps to prevent farm grain bin accidents
DECATUR, Ill. – Grain bin accidents happen quickly. In a matter of seconds, anyone can be suffocated by moving grain. Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations, according to the...
Prevent combine fires this harvest
URBANA, Ill. – Combine fires are one of the most common and expensive types of fire incidents in production agriculture. They can also cause substantial setback during harvest. "Combine fires often start behind the operator...
Make your 2020 harvest your safest one yet
URBANA, Ill. –  2020 has had its own unique set of challenges, but harvest doesn't have to be one of them. University of Illinois Extension offers these tips for a safe harvest. Perform routine machinery upkeep ahead of schedule. When the season gets busy,...
Fulton County 4-H celebrates new 4-H year
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Fulton County 4-H clubs will be organizing soon for the 2020-2021 4-H year. 4-H is the youth education outreach of University of Illinois Extension.  Most clubs have their first meeting of the new year in September or October. This year may be a little different, with...
Small lawn tasks now may mean beautiful lawns next spring
KANKAKEE, Ill. – Fall is the perfect time to repair any lawn damage. As lawns go dormant, a few simple techniques may make the difference for beautiful spring lawns, says James Theuri, University of Illinois Extension educator.  "Fall weather means there is less watering...
Save wetlands, use soilless potting mixtures
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Peat wetlands are delicate ecosystems that take thousands of years to form. Peat accumulates at a rate of about 1 millimeter per year. When the peat moss industry harvests 22 centimeters per year, it is easy to see why there is a concern for its sustainability.  ...