Whether you’re a gardener, birder, or just curious about the natural world, there’s still time to join University of Illinois Extension’s Branching Out series this year. This free monthly educational program highlights expert-led opportunities for participants to explore topics in agriculture and natural resources in the greater Bloomington-Normal area.
September
When: Monday, September 22, 6:00–7:00 PM
Where: McLean Extension Office – 1615 Commerce Parkway, Suite A, Bloomington, IL 61704
What: Entomology Talk - The hidden heroes of the garden: spiders, natural enemies, and pollinators
Who: Dr. Kacie Athey, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, University of Illinois
Details: This talk will focus on the lesser-known pollinators and natural enemies—like parasitoids and spiders—that play crucial roles in our environments. Gain a deeper appreciation for these hidden heroes and learn how they contribute to a thriving garden ecosystem.
October
When: Saturday, October 4, 8:30–11:00 AM
Where: Parklands Merwin Preserve – North Gate (not West) - County Hwy 6, Lexington, IL 61753
What: Birding Walk – Fall Bird Migration and Woodpecker Observation
Who: Dr. Pirmin Nietlisbach, Assistant Professor of Evolutionary Biology, Illinois State University
Details: Get your binoculars ready! This family-friendly guided morning walk will explore fall migration hotspots and provide chances to spot the striking Red-Headed Woodpecker among many other avian species. Participation will be limited to 15 for this event, so register quickly before the spots fill.
November
When: Tuesday, November 11, 6:00–7:00 PM
Where: Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive Street, Bloomington, IL 61701
What: Illinois Climate Seminar – Oh the Humidity: Master Illinois’ Challenging Weather and Climate
Who: Trent Ford, Associate Resident Scientist, Illinois State Water Survey
Details: Central Illinois weather is not for the faint of heart. However, our abundant precipitation and seasonality provide unique opportunities for growing and gardening. Learn about the forces behind our climate, how it's changing, and how to adapt.
Branching Out is open to the public. These free events rotate locations throughout the tri-county area, making them accessible to residents in McLean, Livingston, and Woodford counties. Registration is required to attend but is available at no cost.
To register or learn more, visit go.illinois.edu/lmw/events, or contact your local Illinois Extension Office.
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.