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Beautiful native wildflowers bloom in the foreground, and a family farm with mature trees are visible in the background.
Read article: Understanding Illinois Farmland Property Taxes
Understanding Illinois Farmland Property Taxes
Understanding Illinois property tax calculations is complex and confusing. Properties such as personal residences are taxed based on fair market...
Aerial view of various farm fields with road running diagonally inbetween.
Read article: Farmland Values Showing Mixed Signals
Farmland Values Showing Mixed Signals
Farmland values began to soften in late 2024. With decreasing farm profits in 2023 and 2024, farmland values held firm until the last quarter of 2024...
mealy bug infestation on a brussel sprout plant leaf
Read article: 2024 Recap: Common pest concerns and how to control them in 2025
2024 Recap: Common pest concerns and how to control them in 2025
Did you have a pest issue in 2024 and did not know how to treat it? Insect pests can cause cosmetic challenges, disease concerns, and edibility...
a newly born brown calf stares at the camera
Read article: Little Acres, big hearts: How the Hoffmans are building community and living off the land
Little Acres, big hearts: How the Hoffmans are building community and living off the land
In the heart of Livingston County, Hoffman’s Little Acres stands as proof that a small farm can have a big impact. From treating a sick Jersey cow to...

News Releases

black piglets on the ground
Successful Ogle County Farm Stroll was hosted by U of I Extension
OREGON, Ill. – The 2024 Ogle County Farm Stroll took place on Sunday, Oct.13, with six farms opening their doors to the public. The farms on the stroll were Barnhart's Stone Corner, BerryView Orchard, Dietrich Ranch, Happily Homegrown, Hough's Maple Lane Farm, and...

Staff

Duane Friend

Duane Friend

State Master Naturalist Coordinator and Climate Change Specialist