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Lake and McHenry Counties

Local Food Purchasing Assistance

Are you a grower that identifies as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, female, disabled, a veteran, or has farmed for less than 10 years? Illinois has $28M to buy food at fair market value from YOU! Products will be distributed for free to local communities in need.

Announcements & Highlights

The Great Seed Event logo

Don't miss this event!

Saturday, February 1, 2025 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm McHenry County College Event attendees can pick up native plant, vegetable, herb, and flower seeds (at no cost to them); attend seed-related demonstrations every half-hour (including how to save seeds, grow loofahs, and more); meet with various seed and supply vendors; and learn about garden resources. For those who already save seeds at home, there will also be a seed swap organized by McHenry County Plantings at 10 a.m.

More information here

Hands with dirt and food scraps on ground

Read more about building a culture of composting in greater Chicagoland

What's so important about compost? Food waste is a pressing environmental concern in Illinois. In Cook County — and in many counties around the state — it accounts for up to 37% of landfill material.

How to Compost Here

Great Opportunities at Extension

Shaking hands

University of Illinois Extension is hiring!

We are excited to hire 3 individuals that enjoy working with people of all ages. Looking for the right person that is self motivated and organized. One position is for bi-lingual only. You must be 18 years or older with a High School Diploma. This truly is a fun and challenging job for all levels of experience.

Jobs in Lake and McHenry Counties

2025 Garden Series

Lake County Garden Learning Series

February 12, 2025 - December 10, 2025 This year we have a fantastic variety of topics being presented by The University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners and Educators along with Educators and Ecologists from the Lake County Forest Preserve District and the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO).

Class descriptions and registrations

Events
News Releases
Two people in a boat with nets on poles watch as dozens of carp jump out of the water
Study: Invasive silver carp reduce movement in Chicago-area water
URBANA, Ill. — Invasive silver carp have been spreading throughout the Mississippi River Basin since their introduction a half-century ago. Yet, try as they might, the fish have not advanced beyond a particular stretch of the Illinois River north of Kankakee. Research from the...
A group of adults sharing
Learn practical tips for a fulfilling aging experience
URBANA, Ill. — Aging brings challenges that affect physical, mental, and social well-being. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that includes healthcare, social support, and financial planning to ensure a dignified and fulfilling life for older adults.University of...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings