News & Media

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Illinois Extension strives to provide relevant, science-based information that serves residents and businesses in our area and across the state. From blogs featuring the best seasonal tips and techniques to news stories highlighting upcoming learning opportunities, we offer you impactful insights backed by the research and public engagement resources of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois.

News Releases
Barbara Flores, Karn Mejudhon, Lorna Carlson, Mayor Tom McNamara, Margaret Larson
Winnebago Master Gardeners Recognized with Hunger Champion Award
WINNEBAGO, Ill.- Rows of produce, hands in soil, and hearts dedicated to making sure their neighbors are fed— that is what earned Winnebago County Master Gardeners this year’s Hunger Champion award at the 2025 Mayor’s Hunger Luncheon. Illinois Extension Master Gardeners were recognized and...
wood panelling with pinecone tree
Hort for the Holidays Returns with Pinecone Tree Workshop
WINNEBAGO COUNTY- Gardeners know that nature provides the best décor! At Hort for the Holidays, we’ll turn simple pinecones into stunning pinecone trees that celebrate the textures and tones of the season. From fall through winter, pinecones pair beautifully with greenery...
Nancy surrounded by a group of kids gardening
Illinois Extension staff spotlight: Nancy Kuhajda
BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – Each month University of Illinois Extension serving Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties sits down with an Extension staff member to discuss their work and impact in the community.  This month's spotlight features...
Looking into the canopy of a poplar tree showing early fall color changing from green to yellow
Water trees wisely to beat winter woes
URBANA, Ill. — As autumn colors emerge, it may seem that trees are preparing for rest. However, when fall brings dry conditions instead of seasonal rains, trees can enter winter under stress. Fall droughts can be subtle but have lasting impacts. With timely care, trees can weather dry spells and...
A person raking leaves in a yard
Recycle your leaves for a better garden and suprising environmental benifits
MATTESON, Ill. – After raking leaves this fall, consider recycling them on your property rather than bagging them for curbside pick-up. For the typical home gardener, fallen leaves are one of the most readily available forms of organic matter. Organic matter aids plant growth and can...
a group of people stand in a wetland
Study: 72% of Illinois wetlands no longer protected by federal Clean Water Act
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois once harbored more than 8 million acres of wetlands. By the 1980s, all but 1.2 million wetland acres had been lost, filled in for development or drained to make way for agriculture. Now, thanks to a 2023 Supreme Court decision, roughly 72% of the remaining 981,000...
Cheryl West posing with 3 other Master Gardeners
McLean County Master Gardener recognized at state conference
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The University of Illinois Extension proudly congratulates McLean County Master Gardener Cheryl West of Arrowsmith on receiving a prestigious state award from the Illinois Master Gardener program. Cheryl was honored for her outstanding contributions during the Illinois Master...
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