News Releases

Black Angus cow standing in a snowy, grassy pasture amongst evergreen trees.
Discuss beef cattle management at Dudley Smith Farm winter meeting
URBANA, Ill. — Discussions and decisions made during the winter months can impact managing a beef cattle operation all year. The Dudley Smith Winter Farm Meeting is a chance to come together to learn through the farm’s traditions, sustainable agriculture practices, and hands-on research...
Several different succulent plants in a small planter
Did you forget to water your plants? Try low-maintenance succulents
URBANA, Ill. — Liven up your home this winter by introducing carefree and cheery succulents. Succulents offer interesting shapes and colors with their unique fleshy, plump leaves. The best part is they are relatively simple to care for if you can provide ample light. A few easy-care...
group of Master Gardeners holding their teamwork awards
Gardeners flock to 2023 Illinois Master Gardener State Conference
Local volunteers recognized at state conference for outstanding work EAST PEORIA, Ill. - Master Gardeners and gardening enthusiasts from across the state converged on East Peoria for the 2023 Illinois Master Gardener State Conference, held September 7-8. The conference...
livestock judging team group picture
Fulton County 4-H livestock judging member wins at national contest
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Braydon DeCounter's journey from animal- loving, little boy to a member of the Reserve National Champion livestock judging team is an inspiring tale of dedication, mentorship, and a passion for agriculture. Today, the Fulton County 4-H member stands tall as a member of the...
group of teens with mental health logo
Support youth mental health with first aid workshop
Havana, Ill. – One in five teens and young adults lives with a mental health condition according to the National Alliance for Mental Illness and 5.13% of youth report having a substance use or alcohol problem according to Mental Health America. Adults sometimes forget how hard it was to...
Two blooming Amaryllis flowers
Bloom in the winter with gift of amaryllis bulb kit
URBANA, Ill. — The gift of gardening is an experience anyone can appreciate this holiday season. Take the stress out of shopping this holiday season and give a blooming amaryllis kit that brings the beauty of nature indoors. Poinsettias are beautiful, popular holiday plants, but the gift...
Growing Great Vegetables
Dig in with confidence with spring vegetable gardening workshops
URBANA, Ill. — Growing a vegetable garden takes work, but sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start. Grow with confidence this spring with Growing Great Vegetables, a five-week webinar series from University of Illinois Extension that explores everything from seeds and soil to a...
group of 4-H members and leaders with a collection of food donations
Fulton County 4-H youth make impact with November service projects
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - The month of November is typically associated with reflection and gratefulness. The youth of Fulton 4-H made an impact with several service projects during this month. The new 4-H year started September 1, and with the new year 4-H members invite new families to club meetings,...
Illinois 4-H team poses with ribbons and medals.
Illinois 4-H teams make history in Louisville
Louisville, Ky. -- Illinois 4-H had a record-breaking day at the North American International Livestock Exposition. For the first time ever, Illinois 4-H won the National 4-H Quiz Bowl. For the second year in a row, Illinois 4-H won the National 4-H...