News Releases: Serving Logan, Menard and Sangamon Counties: Illinois Extension
Menard County youth share project work during 2025 4-H shows
PETERSBURG, Ill. – 4-H members earned awards during the local 2025 4-H Shows by demonstrating knowledge and skills they gained this year. Menard County 4-H members showed 93 live animal exhibits at the Menard County Fair and 42 general project exhibits, and 1 entry at the Logan, Menard and...
Farm Business Foundations program empowers local producers with tools for success
LINCOLN, Ill. - University of Illinois Extension recently held a successful Farm Business Foundations program that provided producers with the skills and tools to be effective managers of their farm businesses. This program was conducted in partnership with the Sangamon County and Menard County...
New land grant research detects dicamba damage from the sky
URBANA, Ill — Drones can now detect subtle soybean canopy damage from dicamba at one ten-thousandth of the herbicide’s label rate — simulating vapor drift — eight days after application. This advancement in remote sensing from the University of Illinois...
Include Farm Animals in Disaster Preparedness Plan
URBANA — When tornado sirens become frequent and sudden storms appear out of thin air, it becomes apparent there is a need for a disaster preparedness plan for farmers and large animal owners alike. What happens when disaster strikes and a herd of cattle are grazing pasture?Dr. Yvette...
Illinois Extension expands support for local food systems with new staff appointment
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A vibrant local food and agriculture system is essential to building strong, healthy communities. Sangamon County, in partnership with University of Illinois Extension, is advancing this important work through its Farm to Fork initiative, which fosters collaboration...
Corn after soy: New study quantifies rotation benefits and trade-offs
URBANA — While the majority of Midwestern farmers rotate corn and soybeans, commodity prices and corn yield advantages compel some to plant corn year after year. Although foundational research on the benefits of corn-soybean rotation goes back decades, University...
Celebrating 75 years of 4-H camp magic
MONTICELLO, Ill. — The 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello is turning 75 — and Illinois 4-H is inviting past campers, friends, and alumni to celebrate a legacy of adventure, friendship, and unforgettable summer memories.The celebration takes place July 19 at 4-H Memorial Camp, located at 499...
Abe Lincoln 4-H Shooters holds archery exhibition
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Abe Lincoln Shooters 4-H club currently offers archery as part of the Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports Program, guided by a Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinator and aligned with national standards. Focused on youth development, the program helps members build life skills...
MENARD COUNTY 4-H AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP
PETERSBURG, IL - Menard County 4-H is proud to announce that Emma Wankel has been awarded the 2025 Menard County 4-H Scholarship. Emma, the daughter of Tim and Kendra Wankel is a graduate of the PORTA School District and will receive a $1,500 scholarship to support her education. ...
Cultivate farm success through Illinois Extension's Farm Business Foundations program
For Immediate Release LINCOLN, Ill. - University of Illinois Extension is proud to announce the launch of the Farm Business Foundations series, designed to support individuals who are starting new farm operations or taking over family farms. This three-session program provides...
4-H Public Speaking Contest celebrates youth talent
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Young voices took center stage on Saturday, April 26, as 4-H members from across Illinois showcased their communication skills at the annual 4-H Public Speaking Contest, held in Champaign and hosted by University of Illinois Extension.The statewide competition brought...
Grab your passport to 4-H International Night
WILLIAMSVILLE, Ill. – Local 4-H club members showcased their knowledge of different countries at the 2025 International Night on Tuesday, April 22, at the Williamsville Village Hall. Teams created educational displays featuring photos, books, traditional clothing and food samples representing...
Dust storms in Illinois: Identifying farm solutions
URBANA, Ill. — Dust storms have become an increasing concern in Illinois, prompting investigations into their causes and potential solutions. These weather events have resulted in fatalities, including a 2023...
4-H Public Speaking Contest results announced
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Local 4-H members presented speeches and earned awards at this year’s Logan/Menard/Sangamon 4-H Public Speaking Contest, which was held March 25 at the Sangamon County Extension Office in Springfield. Awards winners included: Champion...
4-H Beyond Ready CPR training prepares youth to respond in emergencies
ATHENS, IL – From February 3-6, Athens High School Biology 2 students gained lifesaving CPR certification through a Menard County 4-H organized training in partnership with Erin Nelson, RN, PEL-CSN, and Rachel Skelton, both from Athens High School, along with Kolbe Huss with the...
Support Logan County youth by attending the annual 4-H dinner and auction
LINCOLN, Ill. - Would you like to support the world’s largest youth development organization and enjoy delicious food? Come to the annual Logan County 4-H Foundation Meal 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 16 at Knights of Columbus. Nuthatch Hill BBQ Company will be providing the meal which will...
Illinois Extension welcomes new 4-H Program Coordinator for Sangamon County
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Through 4-H, youth have opportunities to explore their unique interests, try new things, and grow into future leaders. Families in Sangamon County will soon see new opportunities for their youth as Maddie Atterberry begins work as the Sangamon County 4-H Program Coordinator....
