Lake and McHenry Counties - Offices closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 19th
Announcements & Highlights
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.
Resources Available
Farm Record Books, Pesticide Applicator Training Manuals, and Workbooks are available for purchase through your local Extension Office. There is a wide variety of study materials available to help you prepare for the Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator Licensure Exams.
Winter Bird Feeding with Suet
Winter bird food supplies critical calories to assist birds in regulating their body temperature. Moreover, activity at the bird feeder declines once spring arrives as natural food sources become abundant once again. Learn how to make your own suet to feed your backyard friends.
Exciting Events and Series
McHenry County Agronomy Update
University of Illinois Extension will host the McHenry County Agronomy Update on February 18, 2026, providing producers, agribusiness professionals, and Certified Crop Advisers with timely insights on crop disease trends, weed science, and integrated management strategies for the 2026 growing season.
Lake County Master Gardener Seed Expo
Mark your calendars for March 7, 2026! The Lake County Master Gardeners' Seed Expo will be held at the College of Lake County. More info to come.
The Great Seed and Soil Event
The Great Seed and Soil Event is back for its third year brought to you by the Center for Agrarian Learning at MCC and the University of Illinois extension Master Gardeners! This popular annual event is designed for anyone interested in growing their own food and expanding home gardening skills.
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.
Sea Grant Illinois-Indiana
Sea Grant uses research, outreach, and education to bring the latest science to Great Lakes communities. Sea Grant helps strengthen and preserve ecosystems and communities in southern Lake Michigan and beyond.
Commercial Agriculture
Family Life
Illinois Nutrition Education Programs
Local Foods & Small Farms