Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact.

Upcoming Programs and Events

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Managing Woody Invasive Plants: Fall Classroom Edition

Learn how invasives take over, why it is important to manage these pesky plants, and how to do it effectively. Offered on November 6, at 6 PM at Forest Preserves of Winnebago County headquarters at 5500 Northrock Dr., Rockford IL

people prepping food

Certified Food Protection Management Course

This two-part class is an accredited American National Standards Institute (ANSI) course that meets the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Food Service Sanitation Code requirements.

For more information or to find the local offerings of this course, click here.

Fruit tree

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
News Releases
wood panelling with pinecone tree
Hort for the Holidays Returns with Pinecone Tree Workshop
WINNEBAGO COUNTY- Gardeners know that nature provides the best décor! At Hort for the Holidays, we’ll turn simple pinecones into stunning pinecone trees that celebrate the textures and tones of the season. From fall through winter, pinecones pair beautifully with greenery...
Evergreen Centerpiece
Holiday Centerpieces
Gather your friends for an afternoon of fun as the University of Illinois Extension hosts “Holiday Centerpieces”. This program is being held on Friday, December 19 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Jo Daviess County Extension Office, 204 Vine Street, Elizabeth, IL. There will be a $30 charge to...
Pine boughs with pine cones and berries
Holiday Table Garland Workshop
Join University of Illinois Extension Program Coordinator Nikki Keltner for a “Holiday Table Garland” workshop being held on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The workshop will be held at the Jo Daviess County Extension Office, 204 N. Vine Street, Elizabeth, IL. There is a $30 fee to...
food being prepped in a kitchen
Earn Your Certified Food Protection Manager Credential
FREEPORT, Ill. — Are you currently working in the food industry or hoping to start a career in food service? Take the next step by becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)—a credential required by the Illinois Department of Public Health for managers...
white background, colorful borders and green clover
Stephenson County 4-H Members Compete Successfully at State 4-H Dog Show
Five youth from Stephenson County 4-H represented their county at the Illinois State 4-H Dog Show held Saturday, October 4, in Bloomington, Illinois. A total of 66 4-H members from across the state competed after earning qualifying scores at their respective county dog shows. Stephenson County 4...

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Be ready before a disaster occurs

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings