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Learn essential tips for a better aging life experience

URBANA, Ill. — As people age, they face many changes and challenges, from losing loved ones to declining health and independence. That's why it's essential to give them the meaning they need to live this stage of life with dignity. University of Illinois Extension offers a free online series,…

Yellow rake sitting against large tree with fall leaves on the ground

Consider pollinators during fall garden cleanup

URBANA, Ill. — Pollinators are important to the global food supply and local ecosystems. About 35% of food crops rely on pollinators for production, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Meaning without pollinators, there would be no food. If you have enjoyed an apple this fall or a…

youth winners pose

Competition builds camaraderie, sense of friendly competition

BUNKER HILL, Ill. — The best teenage 4-H shotgun shooters from Illinois gathered to shoot a full 100 rounds of trap shooting at Brittany Shooting Park near Bunker Hill on Sept. 23. A crowd of nearly 250 gathered for this event.

Seventy shooters were on hand for this year’s competition.…

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staff photo of Eliana Brown
Brown takes on new role focused on water management
URBANA, Ill. — Not enough rainfall puts plants at risk during dry months; on the other hand, it can be frustrating when a swift rain floods a lawn or washes away landscaping. Research shows that rainfall will come harder and faster and dry periods will be longer with our changing climate, so...
A bunch of yellow sunflowers
Take a break from the summer heat: Enjoy Four Seasons Gardening series
URBANA, Ill. — Summer is a time of growth and exploration. While spring-planted flowers and vegetables are growing, take a break between waterings to learn something new from the vast world of gardening.  Explore the global impact of sunflowers, discover summer-blooming trees, and learn...
all the winners pose with their catches
Illinois youth focus on outdoor fun in summer tournament
URBANA, Ill. — Youth from across Illinois headed into the great outdoors to participate in the statewide 4-H Hooks Us Together Virtual Fishing Bass Challenge in May. Youth enter pictures and measurements of their catches as many times as they wish. While competition is the focus,...
street sign says alumni avenue
Illinois 4-H launches alumni campaign
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H is calling all 4-H alumni to raise their hands if they are “4-H Grown.” More than 25 million Americans who share this unique bond as former 4-H members. As part of the “Are You Illinois 4-H Grown?” campaign which runs from June 1 to August 31, alumni who have...
wild parsnip
Identify, avoid, and manage troublesome wild parsnip
URBANA, Ill. — Often parsnips, large white carrot-like root vegetables, are substituted for celery in soups and stews. The cultivated parsnip that we eat heralds from the appropriately named wild parsnip, Pastinaca sativa. However, wild parsnip is a plant to avoid. The wild version of cultivated...
weather map showing drought conditions across Illinois
Illinois at increased risk of drought conditions
Parts of northeast, western, and central Illinois have been much drier than normal in the past four to six weeks, causing dry soils and lower streamflow. Perennials, gardens, and young trees in these areas have begun to show some response to the dryness, requiring more frequent watering than...
Red automated tractor driving through roadway near field.
Automated agricultural machinery requires new approaches to ensure safety
URBANA, Ill. — From self-driving tractors to weeding robots and AI-powered data collection, automated machinery is revolutionizing agricultural production. While these technological advancements can greatly improve productivity, they also raise new questions about safety measures and regulations...
Level 1 champs pose after win
Youth robotics competition builds conservationist mindset
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. ­– Youth from 30 teams across Illinois demonstrated their learning, celebrated their accomplishments, and interacted with others who share an interest in robotics at the 4-H Hyrdobot Robotics Competition held at the Interstate Center on the McLean County Fairgrounds on May 13...
Aaron Hager standing in soybean field surrounded by the weed waterhemp
Tank-mixing herbicides may not be enough to avoid herbicide resistance
URBANA, Ill. — Eight years ago, University of Illinois and USDA-ARS scientists turned weed control on its head. More and more herbicide resistant weeds were popping up, and the pest plants were getting harder to kill. It was clear farmers could no longer rely on the same chemicals year after...
Colorful mural on the Hello Peoria Building
Art and culture: A path to progress and community development
URBANA, Ill. — Artists, arts organizations and collectives, and arts activities, in general, can play a valuable role in economic and social development, as well as in the long-term sustainability of communities. Creating artistic spaces fosters connections across sectors to improve physical and...
two blooming pinguicula plants in containers
Bugged by houseplant pests? Give carnivorous plants a try
URBANA, Ill. – During the chilly, dreary winter months, I enjoy my green houseplants that add a bright spot in my office and living space. So when I was visiting a new specialty plant shop this fall, I had to add a new plant friend, “Ping,” to my collection. If you have ever dealt with...
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Take proactive steps to improve overall economic well-being
URBANA, Ill. – In these times, many people feel overwhelmed by financial worries and feel uncomfortable talking about it. Whatever the circumstances, there are ways to get through these tough economic times, relieve stress and anxiety and regain control of finances. Gain the financial...

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