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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…

spotted lanternfly

Get tools to manage non-native plants and insects at Illinois Invasive Species Symposium

URBANA, Ill. — Spotted lanternflies were found in Illinois for the first time in 2023. Quagga and zebra mussels clog water intake pipes on Lake Michigan, and every spring, invasive Bradford Callery pear trees and amur bush honeysuckle bloom across Illinois communities instead of native…

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Extension initiative supports urban ag programs, career paths for youth
URBANA, Ill. – Advanced food science technologies, combined with a growing focus on food security and sustainable farming, are expanding Illinois agriculture potential from rural to rooftop. Urban agriculture contributes to local food security, small business development, youth development, and...
tractor in field at night
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards. Safety and health of workers, including making time for...
Mobile app supports youth development on the go
Teachable moments come in all shapes and sizes. Now, when those unexpected moments occur, parents and educators can rely on the new Terrific Teachable Moments mobile app to help them take advantage in convenient and meaningful ways....
Top speakers compete in virtual 4-H state contest
URBANA, Ill. – This summer was different than past summers for Jordi Oliver. The 18-year-old Massac County 4-H member would typically fill her summer days with feeding, fitting, and showing cattle. Show mornings would start with hot coffee and walks from the tie-outs. While fewer days started by...
In a summer of change, 4-H members focus on what matters most
URBANA, Ill. – In May, Jenna Wheeler and her family had a big decision to make. With a barn full of show pigs and goats bound for the summer showring, and a cascade of cancellations due to coronavirus pandemic, what should the family do? Raising livestock is expensive, but some of those...
National 4-H Week perfect time to register as alum
URBANA, Ill. – Each year, 4-H members across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week, joining 6 million other 4-H members of the country’s premiere youth development program. This year, the celebration runs Oct. 4 to 10. University of Illinois...
Take steps to prevent farm grain bin accidents
DECATUR, Ill. – Grain bin accidents happen quickly. In a matter of seconds, anyone can be suffocated by moving grain. Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations, according to the National Safety...
Practical tips to manage your diabetes
URBANA, Ill.  –  For the millions of Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle is critical in managing the disease for improved quality of life. University...

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