Events

Grow Together

Join us for some hands-on learning experiences designed to help you grow with confidence and community! Discover how to create vibrant pollinator pocket gardens and learn how to choose native plants…

Forestry Skills 101: Using Forestry Tools at Rice Lake

Discover the basics of forestry tools and learn how to identify trees around Rice Lake through simple, field‑ready techniques.
 
Location:  Rice Lake - Meet in the parking lot. …

Introduction to the MIND Diet: Eating for Brain Health

Discover how the MIND diet—a blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—supports cognitive health and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In this program led by Kristin Bogdonas, Illinois…

Amazing Annuals

The University of Illinois Extension Lake County Master Gardeners, SWALCO, and the Lake County Forest Preserve District present the 2026 Garden Learning Series  Programs will be held…

Grow Your Own Bath Sponge

Are you looking for something new or unusual to grow? 

Did you know you could grow your own bath sponge? The luffa gourd is an easy-to-grow vining plant that produces mature fruit with an…

Eat and Educate - Don't Go It Alone: Improving your Social Connections

By participating in this program, participants learn to define the difference between social isolation and loneliness and identify risk factors for both. Also, explore the various consequences of…

Fur Real Companionship

Explore the healing power of companionship, even if you can't care for a pet yourself.

Discover the fantastic benefits animals bring to older adults. Research shows that pets can chase away…

Diabetes Support Group

Are you or someone you care about living with diabetes or at risk for developing diabetes or other chronic conditions?

Join us for an interactive session with Nutrition and Wellness…

Garden Basics Workshop

Do you want to learn some tips and techniques to help your home garden thrive?

Join Illinois Extension for a free hands-on learning opportunity at the community gardens! Come learn essential…

Meal Planning Made Easy

A Meal plan saves time and money, reduces decision fatigue, and supports nutrition needs. Using "My Plate", learn strategies to build nutritious meals.