Farm Estate Planning Series: You need a solid farm estate plan
Disclaimer - The following is meant only for educational purposes and not to be construed as legal or tax advice.PEORIA, Ill. - In the past decade, more attention has been given to estate planning for family farm businesses, as the average age of commercial farmers in Illinois is...
Master Gardeners invest in accessible gardens at local nursing home
PEKIN, Ill. - When Hallmark House physical therapist and University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Vic Harting looked at the outdoor spaces surrounding the nursing home, she saw more than landscaping. She saw an opportunity to create meaningful moments of connection for individuals who...
Pet show was "puurrrfect" for Fulton 4-H members
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - The Fulton County 4-H Pet Show was held on June 10, at the University of Illinois Extension office in Lewistown. Ten 4-H members exhibited fourteen pets. Makenna Johnson served as the judge for Cats and Guinea Pigs; Debbie Beoletto judged Rabbits and Small Pets.Best of...
Get to know Illinois grasses in summer plant identification series
URBANA, Ill. — Grasses play a big role in natural ecosystems — from controlling soil erosion to supporting pollinators to providing food for livestock — but telling one from another isn’t always easy. This summer,...
Peoria Agronomy Summit brings research-driven insights to Central Illinois farmers
PEORIA, Ill. - The 2026 Peoria Agronomy Summit welcomed more than 50 growers, ag professionals, and land owners to Illinois Central College’s East Peoria campus for a full day of research-focused learning. Hosted by University of Illinois Extension in...
The NRA Foundation awards $4,676 to the Fulton 4-H Shooting Sports program
LEWISTOWN, Ill. -- The NRA Foundation has awarded the Fulton County 4-H Shooting Sports program a grant valued at $4,676 to fund shotgun and rifle ammunition, in addition to targets and other supplies. "We are very thankful for the continued support we have received from the NRA," said...
Alicia Sandidge hired as new Mason 4-H coordinator
HAVANA, Ill - Just as 4-H has many project areas and ways for members to flourish, the new Mason County 4-H coordinator has had unique experiences that will bring a fresh perspective to Mason County 4-H. ...
Illinois 4-H youth showcase creativity, confidence at State Fashion Revue
NORMAL, Ill. — Illinois 4-H members from across the state showcased their creativity, craftsmanship, and personal style during the Illinois 4-H State Fashion Revue on June 6 at Heartland Community College.The event featured youth ages 8 to 18 competing in junior and senior divisions...
Fulton 4-H members awarded scholarships
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Each year, Fulton County 4-H is pleased to offer scholarships to graduating high school 4-H members who have actively participated in 4-H events and exhibited leadership during their 4-H career. Thanks to generous financial donors, Fulton County 4-H was able to present $6,000...
How farmers respond to climate-related risk
URBANA, Ill. — As climate change increases the frequency of drought, excessive rainfall, and other extreme weather events, farmers face growing uncertainty about crop production. Understanding how farmers perceive and respond to that uncertainty can help improve agricultural...
Illinois farm cash rent trends remain steady for most in 2026
PEORIA, Ill. - Illinois farmers and landowners have completed their farm lease negotiations for the 2026 production year. Forecasts indicate farmers will endure a fourth year in a row of operational losses. However, government payments have lessened this impact, and because each farm is...
Farm Safety Day registration is open to all area youth
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Accidents can happen in a split second, that's why it's never too young to start learning how to be situationally aware and safe. For over 30 years, University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Farm Bureau have been teaching area youth essential safety skills. This year's Farm...
Fulton County 4-H announces 2026 4-H Shows
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Ask a 4-H member their favorite part of being in 4-H and more than likely they will tell you something about the “fair.” Their favorite memories may be about working in the food stand, earning a Best of Show or State Fair ribbon, spending time with their 4-H friends while they...
ACES Agronomy Days series returns to University of Illinois
With summer just around the corner, Agronomy Days will soon return to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The season-long series teaches Illinois growers the latest...
Delve into water quality research at Dudley Smith Farm Field Day
PANA, Ill. — To help area agricultural producers learn about the latest research on water quality, conservation practices, and related topics, the Dudley Smith Initiative is hosting a research plot tour this June with...
Explore key benefits, challenges of using agricultural drones at Illinois Extension field day
URBANA, Ill. — Technology continues to advance and modernize today’s farming practices. Drone use in farming has gained steady traction and interest, particularly in the application of agricultural inputs such as pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.Attendees can learn more at a field-...
Novel Illinois weed species, Asian copperleaf, identified in northern Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — Corn and soybean farmers should be scouting for a new weed this upcoming growing season. According to University of Illinois crop experts, Asian copperleaf (Acalypha australis) was identified in a field in Stephenson County in...
