Woodstock, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension will host the McHenry County Agronomy Update on February 18, 2026, providing producers, agribusiness professionals, and Certified Crop Advisers with timely insights on crop disease trends, weed science, and integrated management strategies for the 2026 growing season.
The program will be held at the University of Illinois Extension Office at 1102 McConnell Road, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with registration and coffee beginning at 8:30 a.m.
The update will have the following topics:
2025 Fungal Disease Update
Presenter: Steve Brand, Extension Agriculture Specialist
Brand will review the most significant fungal diseases affecting Illinois crops in 2025, including Tar Spot, Southern Rust, and Red Crown Rot. His session will cover their impact on production, management considerations, and expectations for the 2026 season.
Talking Weed Adaptability
Presenter: Dr. Aaron Hagar, Extension Specialist, Weed Science/IPM
Dr. Hagar will discuss the increasing adaptability of weeds and the continued evolution of herbicide resistance in Illinois cropping systems. His presentation will focus on integrated weed management strategies essential for maintaining effective control.
Question & Answer Session Participants will have the opportunity to engage with both Dr. Hagar and Steve Brand to discuss local issues, management challenges, and 2026 crop planning.
Register Here or call the Extension Office at 815-338-3737
Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credits have been applied for.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.