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Significance of Snow
During the holiday season, many individuals hope for a white Christmas, and kids love to make snow angels while they are on school break. In...
a fire burns at night in California just outside a city
Santa Ana winds spur Los Angeles wildfires
At the time I’m writing this, a tragedy is occurring in the Los Angeles area. Thousands of acres have burned, and countless homes, businesses, and...
sunset shining through snowy forest
Are cold temperatures good for soil quality?
Cold winter air is one reason that we have highly productive soil in Illinois and the Midwest. Temperature plays a major role in how much organic...
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"Scary" dry across Illinois as a mild fall persists
We are now nearly through two-thirds of the fall season, and many folks could be forgiven if they have forgotten what rain sounds like. Much of the...
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News Releases

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Local Climate Stewards can lead to big changes with new environmental program
URBANA, Ill. — Climate change is a complex global challenge, but local action has an important role in empowering communities and building resiliency. The new University of Illinois Extension Climate Steward course trains environmental stewards to communicate about climate change and engage in...
Take steps to address climate change at home with Everyday Environment
URBANA, Ill. — It’s easy to get overwhelmed thinking about the impacts of climate change. While there are many strategies to reduce risk and adapt at global and regional scales, individuals can also take action. Learn how you can address climate change in your home, landscape, and community in a...
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Videos

Electrical Hazards During and After a Storm

It is important to prepare in advance for a severe storm or natural disaster. Gathering emergency kit items, having a communication plan in place and knowing when, how and where to take shelter saves lives. It is easy to be complacent about storms or think that they won’t strike close to home....

Caught in a Storm: Lightning Safety

As the sun heats the air, energy is created with air movement, and lightning typically comes from towering storm clouds. Fortunately, accidents involving lightning are very avoidable. Safe Electricity has the following suggestions to stay safe from the dangers of lightning:

  • There...
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Staff

Duane Friend

Duane Friend

State Master Naturalist Coordinator and Climate Change Specialist

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