At Extension, we believe in learning by doing. Our collection of natural resource blogs, podcasts, and videos share expert advice on how to identify wildlife and plant species by appearance and sound and demonstrate how to do everyone from collect maple syrup to manage invasive species.
Explore our collection of resources below and find more videos on everything from forestry to water health online.
Everyday Environment
Everyday Environment explores the intricate web of connections that bind us to the natural world. From water, air, energy, plants, and animals to the complex interactions within these elements, we aim to unravel the ties that link us to our environment. Through podcasts, blogs, webinars, and videos, you'll gain a deeper understanding of and appreciation for these connections in Illinois and beyond. Each fall and spring, we'll explore a new topic in detail.
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Grasses at a Glance
Grasslands cover nearly one-third of the Earth's land surface. They improve biodiversity, regulate water flow, control erosion, mitigate climate, and enhance pollination. Grasses provide habitat and food for wildlife and livestock. Learn which grasses have forage and wildlife benefits, which are potentially harmful if left untreated, and when to take action.
Nutrient Loss Reduction
Illinois Extension is helping enhance water quality at home and downstream. In the blog and podcast, our watershed outreach staff share stories on agriculture conservation, research updates, and field insights related to the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. Topics include seasonal updates, farm conservation practices, wastewater system management, urban stormwater, farm safety, and new tools for farmers to reduce field nutrient runoff.
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Voice of the Wild
Wildlife is all around us. Join Voice of the Wild every Friday to explore a new wild song. From time to time, we’ll also do a deep dive into wildlife science, news, and natural history.
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Explore the basics of all of the steps involved in making maple syrup as Extension Forester Chris Evans walks through the maple syrup production process at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center in southern Illinois.
Except for a small percentage, Illinois habitats are currently unable to sustain complete or large populations of these large mammals. The black bear, timber wolf, and cougar have all made cameo appearances in recent years and have been doing so for more than a decade. There are many reasons,...
Garlic mustard is a high-priority invasive plant that harms native forest ecosystems in Illinois. The first step to removing it is finding it. - Own a forest? Always keep an eye out for garlic mustard along creeks, forest edges, and trails. Identification: Garlic mustard grows over two years....
The Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy is a multi-agency partnership that works to keep our waterways and everything downstream healthy. Explore the three new best practices that have recently been added to the list of recommended practices: water and sediment control basins, saturated...