The Extension Connection

Exploding trees? A closer look at frost cracking

January 30, 2026

Exploding trees made quite a few headlines this past week when winter temperatures dropped across much of the country. While the claim of trees exploding certainly grabs attention, it is a little exaggerated. So, what was behind the frenzy? Is there some truth to the concern?The reality behind these dramatic headlines is a process known as frost cracking. While a sharp crack may be heard in the...

Blog articles

Are you feeding your bees this winter?

January 26, 2026

During the recent warm period in January, I checked the status of my bees. As you can see in the above photo, the bees seem to have survived the very cold temperatures of late November and the first half of December just fine as of the first 10 days of January. What surprised me was the...

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Paper note reading Questions and and Answers

Answers to common questions about pesticide licensing, training, and testing

January 23, 2026

Pesticide News

You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers. Here are some of the more frequent questions we get from Illinois pesticide applicators. Don’t see what you are looking for? Let us know what you are wondering about. Also, a lot of information...

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a person lifting a net pot from a hydroponic system. Roots are dangling from the pot. Several other green plants are sitting in the hydroponic setup.

Growing without soil: Getting started with hydroponics at home

January 16, 2026

Good Growing

When you think of growing fruits and vegetables, you probably think about putting plants in the ground or into pots. However, you don’t always need ‘dirt’ to grow plants. In a hydroponic system, soil is replaced with a nutrient-rich water solution that provides the necessary nutrients for plant...

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Events

February 9, 2026

Backyard Book Art
Join us as Master Naturalist, Master Gardener, and art teacher Merry Lanker leads a creative workshop on painting garden pavers to look like your favorite novel. These charming "book pavers" make a whimsical addition to any garden.Don't have a favorite novel in mind? No worries - come paint any...

Aerospace Workshop, text overlaying a picture of a young girl reaching for a rocket with planets, stars, and other rockets pictured

February 16, 2026

Aerospace Workshop
Ignite your curiosity and launch into learning! Join us for an exciting aerospace workshop where kids will:Build a marshmallow rocket.Identify the parts of a rocket.Compare birds to airplanes to discover how nature inspires flight. This hands-on experience is perfect for...

Locally Led Conservation with Piatt County SWCD text over a purple background with a grass prairie pictured in the background

February 17, 2026

Locally Led Conservation with Piatt County SWCD
The Piatt County Soil and Water Conservation District (PCSWCD) is a county government organization formed with the mission to provide education, leadership, and assistance to the community to protect and promote the wise use of our soil, water, air, plant, and animal resources. Working with other...

Clover, Microphone stand and stool on stage

February 21, 2026

Theatre & Public Speaking Workshop
This 3-hour workshop is for youth ages 8-18. Participants will engage in theatre and improv games while learning key techniques to manage nervousness and enhance public speaking skills. This workshop is a great way to prepare for the DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt 4-H Public Speaking contest on...

February 26, 2026 - February 27, 2026

Annie's Project Workshop
Join us in Annie's Project Workshop and learn about all 5 areas of risk management - financial, human resource, legal, market, and production. This course will allow you to learn from women experts in the Ag industry, gain knowledge and confidence in farm management, bond with other women in...

Open book with colorful flowers sprouting from the middle.

February 28, 2026

2026 Gardening Insights
Join the Macon County Master Gardeners for a morning packed with inspiring gardening sessions! Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, you'll pick up fresh ideas, tips, and tricks to help you plan and prepare for a successful 2026 growing season. Don't miss this chance to dig...

Yellow and black butterfly getting nectar from small purple flowers.

April 11, 2026

Spring Birds & Blooms
This workshop is designed for anyone who wants to learn - no experience needed, just curiosity and a love for nature. Join us for a day of fun, discovery, and hands-on learning!Throughout the day, you will:Learn about spring birds and simple ways to identify them.Learn about...