A greenhouse with handing baskets of vibrant pink and white flowers.

2026 Southern Illinois Twilight Series

Events and News

Jars of home preserved produce and herbs, corn, and tomatoes site by a window.

Summer Garden Wrap Up program in Eldorado

For many, the summer garden season is ending, but that doesn’t mean the work is done. There are many things you can do now to set your garden and pantry up for success over the winter.

On Sept. 22, join Extension at the Eldorado First Baptist Church to learn tips and resources for wrapping up the summer garden and ensuring the safety of your preserved harvest.

A group of people walk on a shaded path surrounded by green grass and shade trees.

Let's Walk for Wellness!

Walking is one of the most accessible and effective ways to improve overall health. Let's Walk for Wellness! is a program that will help you connect with others, build confidence, and take meaningful steps towards better health. 

Join Extension at the Paul Emery Park in Harrisburg and take the first step to better health!

A man sits on a bench under two large shade trees and looks on at a city in front of him.

Welcome Fall with new Four Seasons Gardening webinars!

It is that time again when shifting seasons are near. Keep the gardening conversations growing with two new webinars from University of Illinois Extension’s free Four Seasons Gardening series.

Bookmark the fall series webinars happening on Sept. 15 and Oct. 20

Dixon Springs Agricultural Center

The Dixon Springs Agricultural Center was established in 1934 near Simpson in Pope County. It is the largest experiment station of its kind east of the Mississippi River. DSAC links the laboratories and classrooms of University of Illinois and the USDA with the farms in Southern Illinois. Researchers at DSAC coordinate their programs to meet the needs of area farmers.

Learn more about ongoing Ag research in Southern Illinois on the Dixon Spring Ag Center webpage. 

News Releases

2 adults talking
Learn what research says about everyday health challenges
URBANA, Ill. — With health information available at the click of a button, finding trustworthy, evidence-based resources can be challenging. As misinformation continues to spread across digital platforms, access to accurate health guidance is increasingly important. In response, educators,...
A group of participants walking in a pumpkin field.
Local growers get fresh research and production strategies at Pumpkin Field Day
BELLEVILLE, Ill. — Attendees from across the Midwest braved the triple-digit temperatures to attend Pumpkin Field Day. The biannual event welcomed growers, educators, and industry partners for a hands-on pumpkin field day that highlighted the latest research, production strategies, and on‑farm...
two youth standing next to a sheep
New Sunflower Showmanship brings livestock exhibit experience to more youth
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois 4-H was honored to partner with Special Olympics of Illinois - Region H, the Illinois State Fair, and Illinois FFA to expand access to participation in livestock shows during the 2026 Illinois State Fair. In the new Sunflower Showmanship program, Special Olympics...
Carly Whorton presenting at 2025 grocer summit
Illinois Extension hosts second annual Independent Grocer Summit
CARTERVILLE, Ill. — The Southern Illinois Food Access Initiative, a program of Illinois Extension, is hosting the second annual Independent Grocer Summit at John A. Logan College on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026. This annual event pulls together independent grocery store owners...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings