News Releases

Make a big difference on small farms with winter workshops
URBANA, Ill. – Every small farm is different. Direct market farmers sending produce to local restaurants have different needs than homesteaders getting started with livestock for the first time. But small farmers, hobby operations, and backyard growers alike can always trust University of...
Make informed decisions on the farm with newest field research updates
URBANA, Ill. – Winter is a time for the agriculture community to pause and plan for the next growing season. Crop producers, consultants, and industry professionals can get the latest updates on Illinois crop production in person or online at the 2022 Crop Management Conference in January and...
Local Extension Office Honored at State Convention
‘Extending Knowledge, Changing Lives.’ That’s what the staff at the University of Illinois Extension offices in Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Winnebago counties focuses on. Whether you’re a family or an individual, a business or an organization, a youth or a senior...
Master Gardeners Host Make-and-Take Holiday Event
Gather your friends for a morning of holiday fun and decorating as University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners in Winnebago County host their annual ‘Horticulture for the Holidays’ workshop on Saturday, December 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lockwood Park in the Cookhouse (5201 Safford Rd.,...
Getting the Scoop on Winter Squash
One of the fall's most popular vegetables is winter squash. Winter squash encompasses various squash, such as Acorn, Buttercup, Butternut, Hubbard, Sweet Dumpling, and Spaghetti squash. If you are wondering what to do with all of the winter squash your neighbors keep putting on your front steps...
Economics of Soil Health
Join the University of Illinois Extension and Jo Daviess Soil and Water Health Coalition for "The Economics of Soil Health.” This event will feature Extension Specialists and experienced producers discussing the costs and benefits of regenerative agriculture. This free program will be...
Fall Armyworms Invade Stephenson County
  Freeport, ILL [October 1, 2021]—The extended summer-like weather has given Fall armyworms the opportunity to continue marching north from the southern states. While it isn’t unusual to see them in the fall, conditions created the perfect storm for larger numbers to migrate north...
Stephenson County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Stephenson County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and volunteers throughout the week....
Jo Daviess County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
Galena, ILL [September 28, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Jo Daviess County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, its youth, and...
Illinois Certified Food Protection Manager Class
Freeport, IL----Americans love dining out. Whether we are celebrating a special occasion or simply eating on the go, eating out is very much a part of our lives. According to research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of adults consumed fast...
4-H Nature Explorers Set to Begin in October
Elizabeth, IL- University of Illinois Extension and Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation (JDCF)  are teaming up to offer a new opportunity to youth in our area. The 4-H “Nature Explorers” Club will provide participants with unique, hands-on experiences which will spark their excitement about...
Stephenson County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
Freeport, ILL [September 28, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Stephenson County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and...
Winnebago County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
Rockford, ILL [September 29, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Winnebago County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and...
Radon, Still an Indoor Issue
When was the last time you tested your home for radon?  What changes might have increased your exposure risks over the last few years?  Join University of Illinois Extension Energy and Environmental Stewardship Educator Jay Solomon to learn more about the dangers and management of...
Local Youth Compete in Master Showmanship Contest
It was a nail-biting showdown in the shavings-filled swine ring at the Stephenson County Fair on Saturday, July 31 as ten 4-H youth battled for the title of Stephenson County Master Showman. This highly competitive contest is organized by the Stephenson County...
Stephenson County 4-H Announces Top Award Winners
Youth in Stephenson County exhibited 4-H projects throughout the summer starting in late June all the way through August 1. University of Illinois Extension 4-H Program Coordinator Brenda Heimann informs, “Youth had the opportunity to have their projects judged in-person this...