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Brodie Dunn in a forest

Extension’s dedication to environment grows with new campus natural resources expert

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The wild spaces of Illinois are smaller than what they once were, but the forests and prairies that remain are vital for wildlife and the ecosystem services they provide. Across the state, University of Illinois Extension’s network of natural resource experts connects…

Youth teams standing at a crop scouting station discussing plants with a researcher.

Illinois crop competition calls for youth scouting teams

The Illinois Youth Crop Scouting Competition is not just any competition. It is a unique opportunity for agriculture students to showcase skills and knowledge while working on a team competing for a prize. The team works together to explore and help solve today’s crop-related issues. The…

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?…

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Extension offers best gardening tips for fall season
URBANA, Ill. – As fall approaches, trees begin to change color, cold weather sweeps in, and garden prepping for winter begins.  A free three-part University of Illinois Extension online webinar series will help gardeners prepare for the cold...
Stay up to date on latest ag practices with online, on-demand CropFlix
URBANA, Ill. – Farming in Illinois is very different than it was even 50 years ago and so is how row crop producers stay up to date on the latest recommendations. For more than 100 years, local University of Illinois Extension agriculture experts have worked in person and in the field...
Learn to grow with fall Master Gardener online training
URBANA, Ill. — From small farms and rural towns to the suburbs and inner-city, more than 2,600 trained Master Gardeners put their mission of “helping others learn to grow” into practice around Illinois through community service garden projects...
What lurks under the dirt?: Call before you dig
Instead of hitting pay dirt, you will pay if you hit an underground line SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — August 11 is National Safe Digging Day, also known as 811 Day. The observance reminds anyone considering an outdoor project that breaks ground to get underground utilities marked...
Storm-damaged trees may not be savable
URBANA, Ill. Severe thunderstorms, tornados, and strong winds sometimes damage trees, flowers, and lawns. An EF-3 tornado that hit Northern Illinois in June destroyed several 100-year-old trees. Homeowners in Woodridge and Naperville struggled to find the best ways to clean up and...
entrance sign at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center
Dixon Springs research takes center stage at upcoming forums
DIXON SPRINGS, Ill. – Research drives change for the agricultural industry. Current research projects from Dixon Springs Agricultural Center will be showcased monthly.  The first educational forum begins at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 5 and return the first Thursday of each month following...
Extension’s strategic realignment means more help for Illinois families
URBANA, Ill. – Throughout history, families have grappled with how to manage chronic health conditions, eat well, balance a family budget, and create a stable beginning for their youngest family members. But modern families are faced with a new set of challenges layered on top of the long-...

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