Master Naturalists connect through community and conservation at annual conference
OGLESBY, Ill. — Of all the state parks in Illinois, Starved Rock has the most visitors, and this October, it also welcomed University of Illinois Extension’s Master Naturalists to explore and learn together. Against a backdrop of migrating pelicans floating in the Illinois River at the base...
Time change raises risk of driver collisions with wildlife
URBANA, Ill. — This Sunday at 2 a.m. Central Standard Time, daylight saving time will end, with clocks set back one hour. One of the most noticeable effects of “falling back” is that people will find themselves driving home from work or for after-school activities as the sun sets, putting them...
Celebrate the Season with Holiday Horticulture Workshops
The holidays are the perfect time to get creative—and what better way to do that than with a hands-on horticulture project? University of Illinois Extension invites you to join us for a series of festive workshops designed to bring nature indoors and add a personal touch to your holiday décor....
Nine new invasive species regulated in Illinois with expansion of Exotic Weeds Act
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The forests and prairies of Illinois have a new line of defense against harmful non-native plants. On Oct. 1, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources added nine more invasive plants to the list of species that are illegal to buy,...
Champaign County 4-H wins national livestock judging contest
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Champaign County 4-H Livestock Judging Team claimed first place at the American Royal Livestock Judging Contest held Sunday in Kansas City, Mo., earning an invitation to represent the United States at the International Livestock Judging Contest in Scotland in the summer of...
Water trees wisely to beat winter woes
URBANA, Ill. — As autumn colors emerge, it may seem that trees are preparing for rest. However, when fall brings dry conditions instead of seasonal rains, trees can enter winter under stress. Fall droughts can be subtle but have lasting impacts. With timely care, trees can weather dry spells and...
Youth handlers shine at 2025 4-H state dog show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Dog Show was held on Oct. 4 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. Sixty-six 4-H members represented their home counties across Illinois in 118 individual runs made in partnership with their canine companion. Members who received a qualifying score at...
Start selecting 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Sale bulls
URBANA, Ill. — Seedstock breeders should be identifying bulls they plan to consign to the 2026 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. The IPT Bull Sale is the leadoff event for the annual Illinois Beef Expo in...
Youth sharpen their skills at 2025 Illinois 4-H shooting sports state competitions
Jacksonville, IL — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports State Competitions wrapped up this September, bringing together top youth marksmen from across the state in a series of events that showcased precision, skill, and sportsmanship. Held annually in late August and throughout September, the...
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns
URBANA, Ill. — Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for its fourth season, in partnership with Feeding Illinois, Access Illinois Outdoors, ...
Fall soil amendment educational program to take place at Dewey Farm & Greenhouse
ELDORADO, Ill. – Growing a great garden starts with the soil. Fall soil preparation can be the key to a healthy, successful garden next spring! Join Extension educator, Bronwyn Aly, to learn about soil amendments, including cover crops, compost, manure, and more, on Tuesday, October...
Explore impact of local trees at Illinois Extension fall tree planting workshops
URBANA, Ill. — Communities with healthy, viable trees are more likely to have improved air quality, reduced stress, and added personal comfort for surrounding residents, nature, and wildlife. “As we all have recently felt, Midwest summers are hot, and trees are a crucial part of our...
