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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?…

Recent quarter-sized holes in the soil made by periodical cicadas

Enjoy the silence. Cicadas are coming

If you haven't heard the buzz, you will soon. Billions of periodical cicadas are coming, and University of Illinois Extension is sharing information to help track their moves before emergence.

“Historically speaking, 2024 is a big year for periodical cicadas in Illinois,” says Ken…

Erin Garret standing next to little bluestem in a garden

Grasses at a Glance blog earns award from national Extension organization

URBANA, Ill. — Grasses are a small and often subtle backbone of many ecosystems, making up nearly 30% of the planet’s land cover. They prevent soil erosion, regulate water flow, and provide food and habitat for wildlife and livestock. But ask someone to identify one grass from another, and you…

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Illinois Extension hosts annual update on new legislation impacts
URBANA, Ill. – Yearly changes in state legislation can bring significant impacts to communities throughout Illinois. To help local officials understand expectations and prepare for potential budget changes, University of Illinois Extension hosts...
Livestock managers may complete certification on Extension website
URBANA, Ill – According to the Livestock Management Facilities Act, livestock facilities in Illinois that house more than 300 animal units are required to have at least one certified livestock manager. The certificate is administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and is valid for...
Every day is a good day for environmental stewardship
URBANA, Ill. – The environment impacts daily life. From planning for the day's weather to stewarding natural resources, there's a part of everyone to play. Small changes in daily lifestyle choices can have a positive impact on the environment. University of...
Attend every session of 2021 Illinois Specialty Crop Conference
URBANA, Ill. — Adapting to new strategies throughout the pandemic, Illinois' specialty crop producers are pivoting, again. The annual Illinois Specialty Crop Conference will bring Illinois growers together through its new interactive,...
Add a pop of color to gray winter months with indoor plants
MURPHYSBORO, Ill. – Adding a pop of color to the gray winter months helps combat depression that often accompanies long periods of time without sunshine. Learn to care for indoor tropical plants during a free webinar at 2 p.m. Dec. 17, presented by ...
Be creative with your Thanksgiving meal
URBANA, Ill. – This year is forcing families to rethink everything, from education to outings. Instead of stressing over the changes or feeling sad about what you’re losing this year, University of Illinois Extension has some creative ideas to help...
Put thankfulness in your Thanksgiving holiday season
URBANA, Ill – As families take precautions to keep everyone safe this Thanksgiving, favorite holiday traditions are getting a fresh perspective. University of Illinois Extension family life specialist Cheri Burcham encourages...
Local foods offer a cornucopia of fresh Thanksgiving options
URBANA, Ill. – When the Thanksgiving table is set this year, check if something is missing. It may be the care that local farmers, ranchers, bakers and cooks put into their work. For four years, Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Kelly Allsup has challenged herself to buy mostly...
turkey on table
Smaller turkeys, lower prices on Thanksgiving menu
URBANA, Ill. – As concerns rise over the possible spread of coronavirus during large family gatherings, the expected smaller holiday party size is affecting the food production industry. Smaller guest invites means consumers are looking for smaller whole turkeys on the holiday menu in 2020....
Illinois Extension staff honored for life-changing programs
URBANA, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension helps help families, businesses, and community leaders develop the skills people need to address local problems and build better futures. Award-winning staff were honored during the organization’s...

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