News Releases

a group of children stand at a table full of potted plants in a classroom
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?...
pressure canner tested
Get your pressure canner tested for free by Illinois Extension
URBANA, Ill. — Spring is a great time to take inventory of your canning equipment to prepare for the summer canning season. If you have a dial gauge pressure canner, make it a habit to get it tested by Illinois Extension every year. Various...
Up close view of a calculator laying next to corn kernels and soybeans.
Determining cash rent on Illinois farmland
URBANA, Ill. — One of the most consistently asked questions to University of Illinois Extension offices across the state is, what is the going rate for cash rent for farmland? Cash rent rates are a common yet recurring question that is...
A man at a podium presents to a room full of people
Future forests rely on stewardship, knowledge of private landowners
FREEPORT, Ill. — A forest is many things. Trees provide food and shelter for wildlife. Their leaves clean the air, and their roots filter water, slow floods, and prevent soil erosion. Timber products are crucial to local economies and tourism. Forests and woodlands also once made up more...
Youth in 4-H program dip candy in chocolate as part of workshop.
Sweet Success: 4-H Candy Making Workshop Delights at Hamilton County
On November 17th, 2023, the Hamilton County 4-H office transformed into a confectionery wonderland as eager 4-Hers gathered for a festive candy making workshop. The event not only stirred up the holiday spirit but also served as a hands-on learning experience for the young participants, who dove...
Group of 4-Hers stand around a large rock in forest
Geology Exploration at Millstone Bluff
On November 4, 2023, Unit 24 4-Hers had the unique opportunity to learn about geological layers and explore for fossils at Millstone Bluff and Millstone Lake. This informative session was led by Joe Devera, a Paleontologist associated with the Illinois State Geological Survey. The event aimed to...
Plant Sale and Local Vendor Event at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center
Simpson, Ill. - Longer days and warmer temperatures mean that it is almost time to start planting your backyard garden and flower beds.  University of Illinois Extension invites the public to a plant sale at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center on April 30, May 6, and May 7 from 9 a.m. to...
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...
strawberries on plant
Flamm Orchards To Host Twilight Meeting On Strawberry Production
SIMPSON, Ill. – The Flamm family of Flamm Orchards are teaming up with University of Illinois Extension to host the first of four twilight meetings at their farm on Monday, May 17, 2021 starting at 6 p.m.  University of Illinois Extension Educators, Bronwyn Aly, Nathan Johanning, and Katie...
red tomatoes on the vine
Tomato Production
CARMI, Ill. - Do you have a backyard garden and want to learn more about growing tomatoes? Join University of Illinois Extension Educator Bronwyn Aly to learn more about the basics of growing tomatoes, including variety selection, transplant production, pruning and trellising techniques...
2021 Southern Illinois Summer Twilight Series
2021 Southern Illinois Summer Twilight Series SIMPSON, Ill. - Do you grow and sell fresh products locally?  Are you considering diversifying your farming operation?  Would you like to get to know your local farmer?  Join University of Illinois Extension educators as they...
Employment Opportunity written on chalkboard
Employment Opportunity
This Building Mechanic position is a 100%-time, benefits-eligible Civil Service position. Work schedule 37.5 hours per week with a minimum salary of $21.24 per hour.  Three years of mechanical and/or electrical experience preferred. Duties include, but not limited to: maintaining and making...
Employment Opportunity written on chalkboard
Employment Opportunity
This Building Mechanic position is a 100%-time, benefits-eligible Civil Service position. Work schedule 37.5 hours per week with a minimum salary of $21.24 per hour.  Three years of mechanical and/or electrical experience preferred. Duties include, but not limited to: maintaining and making...
Master Gardener Program Accepting Applicants for Fall Online Training
For the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program, the last four decades can be measured by the millions of volunteer hours given to help bring horticultural help to communities across the state. This year marks the 48th anniversary of the Illinois Master Gardener program...
Project learning never stops in 4-H
The Illinois 4-H youth development program empowers and prepares youth for success by providing opportunities for youth to learn, practice, and demonstrate skills needed for home, career, and global citizenship. Youth, organized in clubs,...