Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact

Like and follow us on Facebook

Announcements and Highlights

Calling all gardening enthusiasts! Don't miss out on a day filled with learning, inspiration, and community at the 27th Annual Gardener's Day, sponsored by the University of Illinois Extension and McDonough County Master Gardeners.

A Matter of Balance: Managing concerns about falling

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.

Everyday Environment: Follow the drop

Do you know where your drinking water comes from? Illinois is a diverse state when it comes to water resources, and where your water comes from depends on how much is available, the quality of a water source, and its contamination risk.

Information You Can Count On

Community Food Map

Use the Find Food IL map to find places in your community offering free food or meals. You can also find stores and markets that accept SNAP/LINK or WIC coupons.

Good Growing

Stay up to date on all of the latest news in horticulture with this engaging blog.

Your Toughest Questions, Answered

Have a question on a plant, tree, or insect? Our horticulture experts will share their advice and solutions to your toughest problems.

Upcoming Events

Where Will You Garden?

March 4, 2025

Root Awakening: Spring Tree Tips

March 4, 2025

Growing Minds: Understanding and Supporting Children's Executive Function

March 5, 2025

4-H Volunteer Café Conversations: Making the Connection Between 4-H Project Learning Experiences and Careers!

March 6, 2025

More Events

Recent News

February 28, 2025

Celebrate spring with the return of the Rain Garden Rumble native plant playoff
URBANA, Ill. — What’s a little friendly competition between plants? The annual Rain Garden Rumble returns this spring, giving nature and gardening enthusiasts a chance to root for their favorite native plants...

Two people sitting behind a table taking notes and bids at an auction.

February 28, 2025

Record-high results for 2025 Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale
URBANA, Ill. — Strong tradition leads to strong results at the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The sale held during the Illinois Beef Expo averaged $7,096 on 33 lots, reaching an all-time record-high average for...

A masked man with a headlight holds a bat in gloved hands

February 26, 2025

Genomic tools provide clearer view of health for endangered bats
URBANA, Ill. — How do wildlife researchers know when an endangered population is sick? They can detect infectious microbes in animal waste, but the presence of a microbe doesn’t always equate to impactful symptomatic infections. In a...

A person leaning over to use garden snips to cut off a section of the houseplant for propagation.

February 24, 2025

From one to many: A beginner's guide to plant propagation
URBANA, Ill. — Many indoor gardeners quickly discover that one houseplant is rarely enough. What begins as an admiration for a charming or unique plant often evolves into a strong desire, or even a need, to fill every corner of a home or office with lush greenery. A simple and cost-effective way...

Someone filling a glass of water at the kitchen sink

February 20, 2025

Tap into Illinois water resources, actions to take at home with Everyday Environment
URBANA, Ill. —  With the quick twist of a handle, water is easily available whenever we need it for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing, and yard work. But do you know where your water comes from?Water is a vital resource that affects everyone. This spring, learn more about how...

More News Releases

Local Programs We Offer

4-H Youth Development