News releases

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....

Illinois 4-H'ers excel in 2026 state shooting sports competitions
URBANA, Ill. — A total of 167 Illinois 4-H youth recently showcased their marksmanship skills in statewide competitions across the shooting sports disciplines of rifle, archery, pistol, and shotgun. These events serve as culminating experiences where participants can measure the progress they...

That Grundy County farm kid 4-H believed in? He’s now its director, working to make the world brighter
URBANA, Ill. — From his front porch in Bloomington-Normal, with his dog Benson lying off to the side, University of Illinois Extension’s assistant dean and director of Illinois 4-H reflects on his...

Youth-led initiative creates local action, statewide change 
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois 4-H youth across the state came together to make a difference in their communities through the annual Illinois 4-H Can Make a Difference Food Drive, held Aug. 14-...

Repot that plant while tuning in to Extension’s Gardening in the Air virtual gardening sessions
URBANA, Ill. — Repotting that houseplant has been on your to-do list, so add in some background gardening talk to set the tone for a fall Saturday. Join Extension on Oct. 24 for the Gardening in the Air virtual symposium. Tune in to the presentations from indoors, outdoors, or while...

Illinois 4-H staff member wins national award for innovative dual credit and credentialing program
WASHINGTON, DC – In Illinois, rural and under-resourced schools often face barriers to offering dual credit courses and industry-recognized credentials due to shortages of qualified instructors, limited Career and Technical Education (CTE) infrastructure, and fragmented connections...

From member to 4-H Hall of Famer, Burke leads multi-state Extension impact in agriculture
URBANA, Ill. — Leading and guiding University of Illinois Extension’s growing team of agricultural experts is no small feat. Last year, the team developed and delivered programs that drew over 95,000 people, both virtually and in person, across the...

Interactive art in nature celebration glows with spirit of sustainability
URBANA, Ill. — The costume Eliana Brown wore to last year’s Illuminating Art in Nature event created one of many memorable moments.“I was a swallowtail butterfly, which is a pollinator our garden supports, complete with...

University of Illinois launches Center for Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Health Integration
URBANA, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension celebrated the launch of a new Center focused on food, nutrition, and health at an event that brought partners together from across campus and Illinois. The...

U of I researchers develop interactive tool to track agricultural injuries, strengthen prevention efforts
URBANA, Ill. — Agriculture is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Each year, vehicles, machinery, environmental hazards, and other incidents cause thousands of injuries and hundreds of fatalities. A thorough understanding of the main risks is key to preventing...

Learn what research says about everyday health challenges
URBANA, Ill. — With health information available at the click of a button, finding trustworthy, evidence-based resources can be challenging. As misinformation continues to spread across digital platforms, access to accurate health guidance is increasingly important. In response, educators,...

College of ACES, Extension deepen research partnership with $2M investment
More than a century ago, the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign welcomed ...

New Sunflower Showmanship brings livestock exhibit experience to more youth
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois 4-H was honored to partner with Special Olympics of Illinois - Region H, the Illinois State Fair, and Illinois FFA to expand access to participation in livestock shows during the 2026 Illinois State Fair. In the new Sunflower Showmanship program, Special Olympics...

Illinois study reveals another reason to save the world’s trees
All over the world, from Oregon’s old-growth forests to Queensland’s eucalyptus groves, creatures depend on trees for shelter. A new analysis from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests that as the climate destabilizes, the world’s...

Gregg family recognized with 2026 Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Gregg family’s 4-H story began more than 70 years ago when Virgil and Edith Gregg organized 4-H clubs in Shelby County and inspired generations of young people to learn and lead. Today, four generations and 17 family members have contributed more...

Illinois 4-H alumni honored for exemplary achievements and service
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Five outstanding Illinois 4-H alumni were honored during the Illinois State Fair for their individual achievements, contributions to their industry or profession, service to the community, and loyalty to the Illinois 4-H...

Kankakee 4-H alumnus honored for exemplary achievements and service
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A Kankakee County 4-H alumnus was among five outstanding Illinois 4-H alumni honored during the Illinois State Fair last month for their individual...

Illinois 4-H youth compete in 2026 Superior Young Dairy Producer Award contest
The 2026 Superior Young Dairy Producer Award program and state 4-H dairy judging contest were held Aug. 22 at the Illinois State Fair. Fourteen 4-H dairy project members from across Illinois participated in the SYDPA program, and 41 youth competed in the dairy judging contest.The purpose...

4-H members demonstrate skills at 2026 State Dog Show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – 4-H members from across the state recently demonstrated their skills during the Illinois 4-H Dog Show, held Aug. 22 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. The show is open to 4-H members who are enrolled in the...