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 4-H Show
The McHenry County 4-H Show offers an excellent opportunity for youth to grow and learn by sharing the knowledge and skills they have developed in their project areas. Fair Entry information | Fair Prep | Exhibitor Passes | McHenry County Fair links
Lake and McHenry 4-H at the State Fair
On August 15, our 4-H members will show their general project work. There's never a dull moment during the Illinois State Fair. Make plans to join us!
A Garden Social Fundraising Event
The Lake County Extension Foundation invites you on Friday, August 28, from 3 - 6 p.m. for an afternoon of raffles, prizes, shopping, & socializing in celebration of gardening, community, and the joy of the season.
Upcoming Programs
Goats at Avon Township
Have you ever wondered what it takes to raise and care for goats? Join us on August 15, from Noon to 1 p.m., for an informative and engaging 4-H Goat Presentation. Participants will learn the basics of goats, including breed types, keeping goats, feeding goats, milking goats, grooming, health, cost, benefits, and exhibiting goats in 4-H.
Lawn to Lake
Join us on ZOOM, August 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. to go over the principles of natural lawn care. Learn to develop a low-maintenance care plan that keeps excess chemicals away from people and pets, and out of local waterways. Presented by Sarah Zack, Great Lakes Contaminants Specialist, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant.
Nature Fun Fest 2026
Join Illinois Extension Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, 4-H, the Lake County Nature Network, and the Round Lake Area Park District at this FREE event for all ages. Activities include pond dipping, nature crafts, live animals, scavenger hunts, plant identification, bird watching, and more!
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