Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact.

Upcoming Programs and Events

Winter Trails and Naturalist Tales

Embrace winter's beauty through outdoor exploration and indoor inspiration at the University of Illinois Extension's Winter Trails & Naturalist Tales. Winter Trails & Naturalist Tales will be held at Torstenson's Education Center and will include four sessions led by three keynote speakers, each presenting a "naturalist tale" as well as an opportunity for a winter hike.

Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit

The University of Illinois Extension is hosting the annual Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit this winter to provide producers with the latest agronomic research updates and equip them with information that will empower their farm decision-making. Click here for more information.

Fruit Tree Pruning Fundamentals Workshop

Join one of our Saturday fruit tree pruning workshops and discover the essential skills that separate thriving orchards from struggling trees. This class will teach you the science and artistry behind proper pruning, empowering you to maximize your harvest while maintaining healthy, beautiful trees for years to come.

Events

Holiday Centerpieces

December 19, 2025

County

JoDaviess

Wee Nats

January 10, 2026

County

Stephenson

Wee Naturalists-Winnebago County Office

January 12, 2026

County

Winnebago

Wee Nats - East Dubuque Library

January 13, 2026

County

JoDaviess

More Events

News Releases

December 18, 2025

Fruit Tree Pruning Fundamentals Program Wraps Up
While it is still too early to begin fruit tree pruning in Northern Illinois, that hasn’t stopped University of Illinois Extension offices in Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties from providing classroom-based instruction this past November and December.“I’ve taught this fruit...

December 18, 2025

Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit slated for January 28
Many northwest Illinois corn and soybean farmers produced their highest yields ever in the 2025 growing season. Despite this, challenges remain, most pertinently the price-cost squeeze that continues to force producers to make management decisions with added scrutiny, rendering standard...

December 15, 2025

Northern Illinois 4-H Summer Camp – Where Young Minds Grow, Learn, and Thrive!
 4-H Camp is a five-day, four-night residential camping experience conducted cooperatively by University of Illinois Extension staff in Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Jo Daviess, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, and Winnebago counties, as well as the professional staff at RRCC. ...

December 15, 2025

Get to Know Our Natural World at Winter Trails and Naturalist Tales
WINNEBAGO COUNTY- Nature lovers of Northern Illinois area are invited to uncover some of nature’s hidden tales and trails on Saturday, January 31st, 2026, at Illinois Extension’s annual program, Winter Trails and Naturalist Tales. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenes, Torstenson’s...

December 10, 2025

Calling All Young Chefs and Party Planners!
Do you love whipping up your favorite foods at home? Do you get excited about planning a party around a fun and creative theme? Now’s your chance to bring those talents together in the 4-H Favorite Foods Contest!Jo Daviess County 4-H and Stephenson County 4-H are teaming up to launch this...

More News Releases