Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact.

Winter Agriculture Programs

Stay up to date on all things agriculture this Winter.
Discover the latest research and best practices by exploring our many agriculture programs and offerings.
Find local agriculture programs

Upcoming Programs and Events

Black and white beef cow grazing in pasture

Pasture Improvement: The Basics and Beyond

This series will focus on management strategies to improve pasture productivity and resilience. The sessions build upon each other by highlighting foundational practices that lay the groundwork for healthy pastures, management options to consider in anticipation of and in response to drought conditions, and higher-level management practices to further enhance pasture production and efficiency.
pasture with fence and tree

Conserving Your Land and Legacy

This program is designed for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture, natural resource stewardship, and planning for the long-term future of their land or farm. Participants will learn practical strategies to improve soil health, protect water resources, and navigate the process of farm or land transition across generations.
Gardening for Food, Flowers & Fun

Gardening for Food, Flowers & Fun

Gardening for Food, Flowers & Fun, an event offering gardening tips for the growing season. Join us for this early rite of spring - an educational venture presenting fresh horticultural ideas, insights, and techniques. The $20 cost includes admission to the keynote and two breakout sessions.
 
Events
More Events
News Releases
Four pictures of preparing food
Become a Certified Food Protection Manager
Galena, IL --- Do you work with food or hope to begin a career in the food industry? University of Illinois Extension is offering an opportunity to earn the nationally recognized Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential this spring.The Illinois Department of Public Health...
hands prepping food in kitchen
Become a Certified Food Protection Manager
Freeport, Ill.--- Whether dining out for a special occasion or grabbing a quick meal on the go, people expect food that is both high-quality and safe. This expectation plays a major role in where people choose to eat. To protect customers and maintain public health, restaurants are required to...
Candice King Guest Speaks at 4-H Public Speaking Workshop
On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, thirty-nine youth from Stephenson, Winnebago, Ogle, Boone, and DeKalb Counties attended a public speaking workshop at the Machine Shed in Rockford, Illinois.  This workshop helps youth learn new techniques to prepare them for their counties’ upcoming public...
Gardening for Food, Flowers, and Fun
Prepare for the Growing Season at Gardening for Food, Flowers, and Fun
WINNEBAGO COUNTY-  Garden enthusiasts are invited to prepare for and welcome in the growing season with University of Illinois Extension and U of I Extension Master Gardeners at Gardening for Food, Flowers, and Fun. The day will have something for every gardener in every stage of their...
More News Releases

Be ready before a disaster occurs

Learn about disaster preparation
Programs We Offer
4-H Youth Development
Agriculture
Community Economic Development
Horticulture
Illinois Nutrition Education Programs
Local Foods & Small Farms
Natural Resources, Energy & Environment
Nutrition & Wellness

Dig Deeper

Topics we address
Agricultural Technology
Beef Cattle
Christmas Trees
Climate
Community Gardens
Community Planning
Composting
Container Gardens
Cottage Food
Crops
Diabetes
Disasters
Economic Development
Energy
Environmental Quality
Family
Farm Management
Firewood
Flowers
Food
Food Preservation
Food Safety
Forestry
Fruit Trees for Home Gardens
Health
Hemp
Herbs
Home Vegetable Gardening
Houseplants
Illinois Grasses
Insects
Invasives
Lawns
Livestock
Local Food Systems and Small Farms
Local Government Education
Mental Health
Mushrooms
Natural Resources
Nutrient Loss Reduction
Personal Finances
Plant Problems
Plants
Pumpkins
Rainfall Management
Regenerative Agriculture
Roses
Septic Systems
Small Fruits for Home Gardens
Soil
Specialty Crops
Thriving Youth
Ticks
Turkey
Vaccines
Weather
Wildlife
Youth Gardening

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings

State Extension
Serving Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Winnebago
Stephenson County Extension Office
2998 W Pearl City Rd
Highland Community College, Bldg R
Freeport, IL 61032
Phone: 815-235-4125
Jo Daviess County Extension Office
204 N Vine Street, PO Box 600
Elizabeth, IL 61028
Phone: 815-858-2273
Winnebago County Extension Office
1040 North Second Street
Rockford, IL 61107
Phone: 815-986-4357