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Frost crack on apple tree branch
Exploding trees? A closer look at frost cracking
Exploding trees made quite a few headlines this past week when winter temperatures dropped across much of the country. While the claim of trees...
mug of hot chocolate
Celebrating Hot Chocolate Day
Hot Chocolate Day is January 31, inviting us to appreciate the plants and traditions that make this beverage possible. While hot chocolate feels like...
A group of pinecones hanging from a branch
A look at Illinois’ native conifers
I have always marveled at pinecones and the seeds of other conifers. Whether I was picking them up for a “collection” as a kid or watching them...
A woodland vole staring at the camera lens giving its best blue steel
Protect your trees and yard from winter vole damage
Voles are active in the winter, even if you aren'tWhile I may not be out in the garden during this time of year, the frozen landscape of Illinois...
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News Releases

Extension Forester Chris Evans shows off homemade maple syrup at a workshop.
Maple syrup workshop continues sweet tradition with tenth-annual event
SIMPSON, Ill. — Each February, local participants brave the cold to learn more about maple syrup production at an annual workshop at Dixon Springs Ag Center. The event is a fun day for the entire family, with a 4-H fundraiser pancake breakfast to start the morning and hands-on activities for...
A man leans on a tool outside by a tree surrounded by a group of people
Extension foresters protect trees, empower landowners
URBANA, Ill. — As the saying goes, the hope is that trees will “bloom where they’re planted.” Still, sometimes even these plant powerhouses need help overcoming challenges like invasive species, urban...
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Videos

Making Maple Syrup - A Basic Introduction

Explore the basics of all of the steps involved in making maple syrup as Extension Forester Chris Evans walks through the maple syrup production process at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center in southern Illinois. 

Be Safe When Trimming Trees Near Power Lines

Trees and power lines often find themselves mingling together causing safety concerns and requiring a utility’s attention. Oftentimes people aren’t happy about what has to happen next. From funny shaped trees to proper trimming techniques to picking out the right tree to plant around lines, this...

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