Lake and McHenry Counties
After more rounds of strong storms swept across much of Illinois, many communities are facing damaged property and stressful situations. The hours and days following a major storm are often filled with urgent questions.
Announcements & Highlights
McHenry County Farm Stroll 2026
Farm Stroll is a self-guided tour of McHenry County's diverse family farms. There is no designated starting point or set route. Choose the farms you would like to visit and explore them during the Farm Stroll event hours. This event is FREE to attend. Many farms will offer products and produce for sale, while others will host tours, demonstrations, and educational activities for visitors to enjoy.
Northern Illinois 4-H Volunteer & Teen Leader 2026 Conference
This FREE conference is designed to re-energize and equip 4-H leaders as we kick off the new 4-H year. Led by 4-H professionals from across Northern Illinois and the State 4-H Office, the event also fulfills your required three hours of volunteer training for the 2026–2027 program year.
Upcoming Programs
Collection, Processing, and Sowing of Native Seeds
Join us on Sept. 1 from 7 - 8 pm as we look at different approaches for seed collection, equipment, and techniques to clean native seeds.
Jardinería para las aves (Landscaping for Birds)
¿Te gusta observar aves y te gustaría atraerlas a tu jardín todo el año? Descubre las diferentes formas de conseguirlo en tu jardín incorporando plantas autóctonas. Esta presentacion sera en español.
Compost Confidential
Join us for a Composting Open House at the Lake County Extension Office on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Whether you are struggling with a traditional backyard setup or want to explore advanced indoor methods, our Master Gardeners are here to help you get your pile back on track!
Events
News Releases
Local Resources
Workbooks and Manuals
Farm Record Books, Pesticide Applicator Training Manuals, and Workbooks are available for purchase through your local Extension Office. Please call ahead for availability.
Illinois Pollinators
Pollinators are a group of amazing insects that are vital to both plant life and human life on earth. Filter pollinator plants by color of bloom, month of bloom, sun and moisture requirements, and more!
Gardening on a Budget
Starting a container garden can benefit your budget and be a fruitful hobby that satisfies your taste buds. Learn about the start-up expenses for a container garden and plan your produce to supplement your budget. This is part of the Lessons for Living Webinar Series 2026.
Connect. Learn. Grow
Plant Problems? Insects Invading? What's that Weed?
Call our Master Gardener Helpline and a U of I Extension Master Gardener will answer your questions at NO COST! From insects to pollinator gardens, crabgrass to milkweed, if you have a question, they can help!
Become a Master Naturalist
Volunteer as a Master Naturalist to facilitate conservation and restoration in your community and educate others about natural resources.
Eat well, stay active, and save money
Find tasty recipes, shopping tips, and activities to keep you and your family healthy.
4-H Youth Development
Commercial Agriculture
Consumer Economics
Family Life
Horticulture
Local Foods & Small Farms
Master Gardeners
Master Naturalist
Nutrition & Wellness
See the impact Extension makes in your community