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...
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 traffic accident that took the lives of eight...
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....
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
Strengthen spring planting with tips from Growing Great Vegetables webinar series
URBANA, Ill. — As gardening continues to gain popularity, it is important to keep the learning growing. Whether it is skills needed for a large backyard garden or a few windowsill and porch pots, sharing the knowledge and how much fun gardening activities with others can be very fulfilling....
Registration open for 2025 Certified Livestock Manager Training in-person sessions
URBANA, Ill. — The importance of livestock's health, overall well-being, and safety is the responsibility of producers and all who care for the animals daily. Having certified individuals on staff strengthens an operation through shared knowledge and building conversations with individuals...
Empowering youth with life-saving skills: CPR training program at Athens High School
ATHENS, IL – Students in Athens will have an invaluable opportunity to gain life-saving skills through CPR training because of a partnership between Menard County 4-H, Rachel Skelton, teacher of Biological Sciences at Athens High School, Erin Nelson, RN and nurse at Athens High School, and Kolbe...
Learn about the latest research at Dudley Smith Farm
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — Stay informed on current agriculture practices and the latest research taking place at Dudley Smith Farm during the annual Winter Meeting. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County Office located at 1120 N....
