News Releases

2 youth wearing baseball jerseys standing in front of a banner that says "Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest"
4-H Public Speaking Contest celebrates youth talent
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Young voices took center stage on Saturday, April 26, as 4-H members from across Illinois showcased their communication skills at the annual 4-H Public Speaking Contest, held in Champaign and hosted by University of Illinois Extension.The statewide competition brought...
attendees looking at display boards
Grab your passport to 4-H International Night
WILLIAMSVILLE, Ill. – Local 4-H club members showcased their knowledge of different countries at the 2025 International Night on Tuesday, April 22, at the Williamsville Village Hall. Teams created educational displays featuring photos, books, traditional clothing and food samples representing...
A large agriculture-related dust cloud over a farm field
Dust storms in Illinois: Identifying farm solutions
URBANA, Ill. — Dust storms have become an increasing concern in Illinois, prompting investigations into their causes and potential solutions. These weather events have resulted in fatalities, including a 2023...
nine youth standing in a row holding award ribbons
4-H Public Speaking Contest results announced
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Local 4-H members presented speeches and earned awards at this year’s Logan/Menard/Sangamon 4-H Public Speaking Contest, which was held March 25 at the Sangamon County Extension Office in Springfield.  Awards winners included: Champion...
girl practicing cpr
4-H Beyond Ready CPR training prepares youth to respond in emergencies
ATHENS, IL – From February 3-6, Athens High School Biology 2 students gained lifesaving CPR certification through a Menard County 4-H organized training in partnership with Erin Nelson, RN, PEL-CSN, and Rachel Skelton, both from Athens High School, along with Kolbe Huss with the...
black plate with spaghetti
Support Logan County youth by attending the annual 4-H dinner and auction
LINCOLN, Ill. - Would you like to support the world’s largest youth development organization and enjoy delicious food? Come to the annual Logan County 4-H Foundation Meal 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 16 at Knights of Columbus. Nuthatch Hill BBQ Company will be providing the meal which will...
headshot of woman wearing a brown turtleneck shirt
Illinois Extension welcomes new 4-H Program Coordinator for Sangamon County
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Through 4-H, youth have opportunities to explore their unique interests, try new things, and grow into future leaders. Families in Sangamon County will soon see new opportunities for their youth as Maddie Atterberry begins work as the Sangamon County 4-H Program Coordinator....
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
black cow in a snowy field
Learn about the latest research at Dudley Smith Farm
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — Stay informed on current agriculture practices and the latest research taking place at Dudley Smith Farm during the annual Winter Meeting. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County Office located at 1120 N....
10 National 4-H Congress delegates from Illinois in formal dress
Logan County 4-H members attend National 4-H Congress
Ten teens from Illinois attended a five-day national conference in Atlanta, Ga. from November 29-December 3.  Delegates to National 4-H Congress included Logan County 4-H members Sophia Schneider, daughter of Jennifer Schneider and member of the Beason Ag 4-H club, and Alexander...