News Releases

News & press
black cow in a snowy field
Learn about the latest research at Dudley Smith Farm
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — Stay informed on current agriculture practices and the latest research taking place at Dudley Smith Farm during the annual Winter Meeting. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County Office located at 1120 N....
a group of people having a discussion outside sitting in the grass
Local Climate Stewards can lead to big changes with new environmental program
URBANA, Ill. — Climate change is a complex global challenge, but local action has an important role in empowering communities and building resiliency. The new University of Illinois Extension Climate Steward course trains environmental stewards to communicate about climate change and engage in...
A plate filled with a variety of holiday cookies of shapes, colors, and flavors sitting on a wooden table next to evergreen holiday décor.
Sugar and spice make everything nice
URBANA, Ill. — Sugar and spice make everything nice, especially in holiday treats. But do you know where sugar and spice come from?Plants make the sugar glucose during the process of photosynthesis. Certain plants can take excess glucose, create sucrose, and then store it in either the...
two men with a certficate
Extension recognizes employee excellence, commitment to mission
URBANA, Ill. — Across the state, more than 650 University of Illinois Extension employees work to serve the communities where they live and help tackle local issues with research-based solutions. Illinois Extension honored 11 outstanding individuals whose efforts demonstrate significant public...
Group of award winners.
‘Taste of Extension’ connects community with life-changing resources
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension has connected every county in Illinois with life-changing research to improve lives for more than a century. However, many community members are unaware of the variety of local Extension programs for all ages. To raise awareness about...
award winners at conference
Five community engagement programs recognized for excellence
URBANA, Ill. — The core of University of Illinois Extension’s mission is to help individuals and communities improve by connecting them with life-changing research-based information. Every year, staff across the state offer thousands of in-person and remote programs to meet this mission....
Grady Shaffer and coaches.
Illinois 4-H member shines at National Poultry and Egg Conference
LOUISVILLE, KY – Grady Shaffer, a Illinois 4-H member from Adams County, showcased his poultry expertise on a national stage at the 2024 National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference, held Nov. 21 in Louisville, Kentucky. Grady competed among top 4-H youth from across the country,...
The top half of a plant terrarium filled with plants but designed to look like a red candy jar.
Candy jar terrariums: A nostalgic take on a holiday gift
URBANA, Ill. — Leaves and temperatures are falling. As we prepare landscapes and gardens for winter, look towards indoor plant care to warm the mood. Giving plants for the holidays brings a little sunshine and warmth to those near and dear.Impossible bottles or...
A row of garden tools including a silage fork, stirrup hoe, and broadfork all leaning against a house.
Add these garden tools to holiday wish lists
URBANA, Ill. — Gardeners love a fresh pair of pruners or nicely sharpened spade. Using specialized tools helps to lighten the workload, and using the right tool for the job can save a lot of time. Keep these ideas in mind when looking for innovative tools to add to gift lists throughout the...
A group of perennial plants in pots grouped together to overwinter outdoors.
Overwintering potted plants
URBANA, Ill. — Perennial plants being overwintered in pots are subjected to much harsher conditions compared to those in the soil. Because of this, they can be damaged and killed. Fortunately, there are some steps to try to get these plants through the winter and enjoy them again come spring....
Extension educator teaching an in person class with audiencie
Illinois Extension's health education transforms lives in Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. — In line with Illinois' land-grant mission, University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, fosters knowledge, and builds partnerships to support individuals and communities. In 2023, the team members working in Extension's Family and Consumer Sciences program areas...
An elderly woman assists an old man in pain
Learn useful strategies for chronic pain management
URBANA, Ill. — Pain is the body's warning signal that something is wrong. Patients and physicians collaborate to identify and treat the underlying cause at the first signs. However, over time, patients may be diagnosed with chronic pain. According to the ...
Team picture and Allison Burrs picture.
Illinois 4-H Hippology Team earns champion title
LOUISVILLE, KY -- The Illinois 4-H State Hippology team showcased their extensive equine knowledge at the Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup, securing the title of 2024 Hippology champions. Their expertise was tested across a range of topics, including breed identification and evaluation,...