Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact

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...

IDOA, ACES, and local food banks unite to deliver 1,000+ pounds of protein during Hunger Action Month
URBANA, Ill. — This year, Champaign County 4-H’er Austin Ater celebrated his 14th birthday in an extraordinary way — by giving back. The 2025 Illinois State Fair junior grand champion poultry exhibitor donated his record-setting winning pen of...

Recycle pumpkins with a smash at Illinois Extension fall community composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Whether picking out pumpkins from a field or carving fun faces for jack-o'-lanterns with friends, pumpkins naturally give off fall vibes. But what happens when they start to decay on the porch or countertop, and it’s time to say goodbye? Where do they go? Many think...

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...

Stormwater Leadership Summit unites Northern Illinois communities in search for regional solutions
GLENCOE, Ill. — On Sept. 25, more than 100 community leaders, engineers, planners, and stormwater experts gathered at the Chicago Botanic Garden for the first-of-its-kind Stormwater Leadership Summit to address one of Illinois' most pressing...