CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — From rural farms and small towns to bustling suburbs, over 2,300 dedicated volunteers across Illinois are committed to gardening education and community outreach. While they typically help others learn to grow, Master Gardener volunteers will grow together during the 2024 Illinois Master Gardener Conference in Champaign on Sept. 12-13. 

Hosted by Illinois Extension volunteers and staff from Champaign, Ford, Iroquois, and Vermilion counties, the annual conference promises a rich blend of educational sessions, engaging tours, and valuable networking opportunities.

On Sept. 12, attendees can choose from a range of optional tours. Explore the natural beauty of Allerton Park in Monticello with a full-day guided tour or opt for a half-day experience in the Champaign-Urbana area by visiting a flower farm, vegetable farm, or a garden-focused campus tour.

The conference on Sept. 13 kicks off with a keynote address from Entomologist May Berenbaum, whose research focuses on the interactions between insects and plants and their implications in the organization of natural communities and agroecosystems. Participants will have the chance to attend three informative breakout sessions, participate in a silent auction, and celebrate at an awards ceremony honoring the exceptional contributions of volunteers from across the state.

This event not only highlights the incredible dedication of volunteers but also provides an opportunity for professional development and networking. Volunteers and staff interested in attending the conference can register at go.illinois.edu/2024MGConference.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact Candice Anderson at 217-935-5764 or by email at mille116@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting participant needs.