Plant positivity, learn how to grow a school or community garden
URBANA, Ill. — When green spaces fill schoolyards and neighborhoods with flowers and fresh produce, children and communities thrive. But the journey from the idea of starting a community or school-based garden to planting one that is built to last is long. What funding sources are available?...

Local Extension conference aimed to help farmland owners stay competitive in current market
Modern agriculture is a complex, highly technical, and competitive business environment. In Central Illinois, a large percentage of farmland is owned by someone who does not farm the land and relies heavily on others to understand the details. University of Illinois Extension and Illinois...

Enjoy the silence. Cicadas are coming
If you haven't heard the buzz, you will soon. Billions of periodical cicadas are coming, and University of Illinois Extension is sharing information to help track their moves before emergence. “Historically speaking, 2024 is a big year for...

4-H STEM Career Exploration Camp opens doors for youth
Have you ever wondered what it's like to embark on a journey in the exciting world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)? The annual 4-H STEM Career Exploration Camp (formerly known as 4G STEM Camp) is back - and this year, it's open to all youth entering 6th-8th grade!...

Mason County 4-H launches new club, Sand Ridge Clovers
The newly named Sand Ridge Clovers 4-H Club held its inaugural meeting and established its United States Department of Agriculture 4H Club Charter on February 15, 2024. Thanks to Mason County 4-H alumnus Bridget Guede of Manito, more youth and their families will be able to enjoy all that 4-H...