OREGON, Ill.—Local residents will have an opportunity to learn more about one of Illinois’ most fascinating native animals during Wild Neighbors: Beavers—Nature’s Engineers, a free program offered by University of Illinois Extension. The presentation will be held on Wednesday, February 11, at 10:00 a.m. at the Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th Street in Oregon.
Extension Educator Peggy Anesi will lead the session, exploring the complex relationship between humans and beavers. From the child enchanted by a beaver’s quiet meal at the zoo to the landowner frustrated by a freshly felled tree, these animals evoke a wide range of reactions. Anesi notes that while beavers can create challenges, they also play an important ecological role—and they make decisions based on instinct, not human expectations.
Anesi specializes in environmental education, helping audiences understand wildlife behavior, habitat needs, and the connection between animals and water quality. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology with a focus on wildlife management.
Those needing reasonable accommodations to participate may contact the DeKalb County Extension office at 815-758-8194.
The program is free, but registration is required. To reserve a seat, call the Rock River Center at 815‑732‑3252.
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 five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.