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Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact.

Talking Crop Podcast

Talking Crop is a row crop production podcast. In each episode, a guest expert is interviewed to discuss topics in their areas of expertise. Each episode provides relevant, timely information to corn and soybean producers to help them make informed management decisions.

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Upcoming Programs and Events

Food Preservation Classes and Pressure Canner Testing Clinics

Preserving food at home lets us enjoy homegrown, locally sourced, or seasonal foods year-round. Check out our list of local, in-person food preservation classes and pressure canner testing clinics. Join us so you can be prepared for safe food preservation.

Taking the Next Steps in Cover Crop Management

Local corn and soybean producers are invited to attend "Taking the Next Steps in Cover Crop Management", an educational program focused on advancing cover crop management and decision‑making. Building on introductory cover crop programming offered last year, this event is designed for producers who are ready to deepen their understanding of cover crop systems and explore more management‑intensive practices.

4-H Upcoming Show Schedules

Jo Daviess County

July 11 - Dog Show

July 13 - Horse, Poultry, and Rabbit Shows

July 14 - General Projects and Cloverbud Judging

July 15 - Livestock Shows

Stephenson County

June 27 - Dog and Cat Shows

July 15 - General Projects Judging

July 17 - Clothing & Textiles, Food Decorating and Flower Arranging Shows

July 20 - Crops, Foods, Horticulture, and Cloverbud Shows

July 21 - Livestock Shows

Winnebago County

June 23 - Floriculture Centerpiece Display: Live Activity

June 27 - Bike Safety Day and Rodeo

July 10 - Dog Show

July 11- Food and Clothing Shows

July 18 - Horse, Rabbit, and Small Pet Shows

July 24 - General Projects Judging

July 25 - Cat Show

August 19 - Livestock Shows

August 21 - Talent Show

Events

Osteoporosis 101

July 8, 2026

County

Stephenson

Pressure Canner Dial Testing Clinic

July 9, 2026

County

Stephenson

Pressure Canner Dial Testing Clinic

July 31, 2026

County

Winnebago

ABCs of School Nutrition - Rockford

August 4, 2026

County

Winnebago

More Events

News Releases

cover crops growing in a field with crop residue

July 1, 2026

Extension to Host Cover Crop Management Program
LENA, Ill.--Local corn and soybean producers are invited to attend "Taking the Next Steps in Cover Crop Management", an educational program focused on advancing cover crop management and decision‑making.Building on introductory cover crop programming offered last year, this event is...

Osteoporosis spelled out in beads on a pink background

June 11, 2026

Protect Your Bones: Learn the Basics of Osteoporosis Prevention
Freeport, Ill.-- Over 54 million Americans have low bone density or osteoporosis, placing them at increased risk for bone fractures. Post-menopausal women face a higher risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, but men are also affected. In fact, men over the age of 50 are...

Flowers with Butterfly and Bee Pollinators

June 4, 2026

Pollinators: If You Plant It, They Will Come
Join University of Illinois Extension, Jo Daviess County Master Gardener, Madelynn Wilharm for this program to celebrate National Pollinator Week on Wednesday, June 24 at 10 a.m. This program is being held at the Galena Community Garden, 715 S. Dodge Street, Galena, IL. Pre-registration is...

Multiple protein food sources... chicken, salmon, beef, beans..

May 22, 2026

Protein, Physical Activity, and Aging: What You Need to Know
Staying healthy and fit can be challenging at any age, but maintaining strength becomes even more important as we grow older. Aging brings many natural physiological changes, including a gradual loss of muscle mass that can affect mobility, independence, and overall health.Beginning...

May 14, 2026

From Garden to Table: Using Culinary Herbs in Everyday Meals
Freeport, Ill. --Herbs and spices are a simple way to add flavor while supporting healthy eating. Whether you grow them in your garden or purchase them locally, herbs can transform everyday meals with vibrant flavors, aromas, and colors. Learning how to select, store, and use...

More News Releases