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Independent Grocer Summit helps local businesses maximize profitability

CARTERVILLE, Ill. — With the rise of big-box stores and rising operational costs, small-town businesses are becoming scarcer. Yet independent grocers play a vital role in local economies, especially within rural communities or food deserts. 

The second annual Independent Grocer Summit…
Recycle pumpkin season with a smash at Illinois Extension composting events

URBANA, Ill. — Like the changing of the leaves, fall can seem fleeting. Enjoy seasonal vibes — until the porch pumpkins start to decay. When that happens, where do the pumpkins go?

“Many do not realize that a thrown-away pumpkin does not break down and disappear on its own without leaving…
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for the 2026-27 hunting season

URBANA, Ill. – A popular program returns for its fifth season to help feed neighbors in need. Hunters Feeding Illinois connects hunters, meat processors, and food pantries to bring lean protein to local residents and families, providing a unique pathway to address and improve food insecurity.…
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A black and yellow cicada killer wasp stinging an annual cicada.
Cicada killer wasps in search of cicadas, not humans
URBANA, Ill. — The annual cicadas have begun to sing their song, and along with them comes the emergence of their natural predator, the cicada killer wasp. Despite their large size, these pollinating giants are not as threatening as they first seem. Annual cicadas, also...
New 4-H educator ready to support youth, teens in western suburbs
ST. CHARLES, Ill. – Illinois 4-H strives to unlock the potential in every young person, helping them to dream, plan, design, build, and achieve. Around the state, University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development staff are guiding the next generation of leaders, innovators,...
Aphid pests on the move in backyard gardens, agricultural fields
URBANA, Ill. – Ever spy small, yellow dots on the back of plant leaves during the summer months? Those tiny pear-shaped specks are aphids. Aphids are a common insect pest in the home landscape and for houseplants. There are many species of aphids in Illinois and they feed on a large...
Illinois teens become advocates for food access, security
What does it mean to be hungry? Illinois 4-H teens are challenging experts in the fields of food access, food security, and food justice to learn how to advocate for others in their communities. In May, 105 youth at the...
Pesticide rollback removes hundreds of pesticides from future use
URBANA, Ill. — The Environmental Protection Agency’s most recent evaluation of publically available pesticides resulted in the removal of more than 100 turf, pest, and agricultural products from the approved list. Every 15 years, the EPA examines registered pesticides to ensure they...

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