Master Naturalist

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Blog Posts

Season 4 Invasive species
Read article: Effective invasive species management takes empathy and teamwork
Effective invasive species management takes empathy and teamwork
In the spring 2026 season of Everyday Environment, we explored invasive species in a new and exciting way. The world of invasives typically focuses...
habitat restoration
Read article: Stories from the field: Managing invasive species at Emiquon Preserve
Stories from the field: Managing invasive species at Emiquon Preserve
When water returned to the floodplain at The Nature Conservancy’s Emiquon Preserve in west central Illinois, it marked a major restoration success....
invasive golden oyster mushroom
Read article: A golden opportunity to learn that mushrooms can be invasive too
A golden opportunity to learn that mushrooms can be invasive too
You’ve heard of invasive plants and animals, but what about mushrooms? Around Illinois, you won’t have to look far to find invasive mushrooms.Golden...
protecting illinois from invasive pests
Read article: Protecting Illinois from invasive pest threats
Protecting Illinois from invasive pest threats
The Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey program, CAPS, focuses on the early detection and...

News Releases

Woman showing gardeners a pollinator garden.
Grow healthier ecosystems at home this pollinator month
URBANA, Ill. — Planting native flowers in a backyard, patio container, or community garden can provide critical food and habitat for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. This June, in recognition of National Pollinator Month, University of Illinois Extension encourages community members to...

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