March 2026

A group of 4-H members stand at a table with a presenter, while a group of people present from a screen that reads: how to select your 4-H project

Local ag leaders and 4-H youth gather to talk about the quality care of animals

March 6, 2026

YORKVILLE, Ill. — From farms to the marketplace, the future of agriculture depends on raising animals responsibly and ethically. On Saturday, local 4-H members from Grundy and Kendall counties gathered at the Kendall County Fairgrounds to learn from industry leaders about practical insights on animal health, stewardship, and standards that sustain consumer trust. “4-H members put a lot of...

News releases

February 12, 2026

New series helps residents grow groceries, saving money in the process
BOURBONAIS, Ill. — Growing affordable, fresh produce at home is something that many people are interested in, but can often feel out of reach.  Whether due to lack of experience, uncertainty about what...

February 19, 2026

'Is college for you?' Illinois Extension invites students to try it for a week
URBANA, Ill. — For high school students, planning for the future can be both stressful and exciting. This summer Illinois high school students can experience college firsthand before they ever complete an application. The program is hosted by ...

A family of three stand in a farm field overlooking a sunset

February 11, 2026

Illinois Extension offers support for farmers experiencing economic stress
URBANA, Ill. — As farmers across the state face mounting economic pressures, University of Illinois Extension reminds agricultural producers, advisers, and families that free help is available wherever you are.Assistance resources range...

A group of people in an office environment

February 26, 2026

Illinois Extension supports rural communities with a business transition plans series
URBANA, Ill. — Across the United States, many small-business owners are approaching retirement without a clear plan for what comes next. Although these entrepreneurs have spent decades building companies that support local jobs and services, many are unaware of succession options beyond...

A side-by-side recreation of people 150 years apart posing the same at the Morrow Plots

February 26, 2026

ACES marks 150 years of the Morrow Plots, our nation's oldest research field
URBANA, Ill. — A lot has changed on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus since its founding in 1867, but a storied plot of land near the south quad has been preserved nearly intact for a century and a half....

Morgan is pictured in a blue jacket, standing in front of a food pantry display

March 4, 2026

Illinois Extension staff spotlight: Morgan Roberts
BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Each month University of Illinois Extension serving Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties sits down with an Extension staff member to discuss their work and impact in the community.This month's spotlight features...

Girl smiles while shaking a judge's hand after showing her steer.

March 2, 2026

Illinois Extension 4-H Member Spotlight: Clara Chappell
BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Illinois 4-H, the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension, empowers young people to dream about better tomorrows and gives them the tools to explore their future. Each month, Illinois Extension in Grundy, Kankakee, and Will Counties highlights...

Events

March 11, 2026

Everyday Stability: How Home Environments Support Children and Caregivers Through Change
Discover how predictable, responsive home environments shape healthy child development.Children grow best in environments that feel predictable, responsive, and supportive. This session examines how everyday home environments and responsiveness foster youth development throughout...

March 16, 2026

Tomatoes and Peppers
Would you like to grow your own fresh produce? Are you new to gardening or an experienced pro? Do you want to learn more about the crops we can grow in our backyards? Join Horticulture Educator...

March 19, 2026

Wily and Wild Animal Invaders in Illinois
Across the U.S., including Illinois, many non-native wildlife species have found their way into new environments where they can be a threat. Explore the history of these animal invasions and the tug-of-war between the biology of animals, including humans, and efforts to protect our native natural...

March 23, 2026

The Greens: Lettuces, Spinach, Cabbages and more
Would you like to grow your own fresh produce? Are you new to gardening or an experienced pro? Do you want to learn more about the crops we can grow in our backyards? Join Horticulture Educator...

March 24, 2026

The Evolution of Succession Planning: Strengths, Shortfalls, and Innovative Pathways Forward
Discover innovative pathways that advance the next stage of effective, adaptable succession planning.Traditional succession planning is essential to business continuity and stability. This presentation traces its evolution and, through case studies, demonstrates that rigorous plans...

Wetlands and the text "Resilient Communities"

March 24, 2026

Reviving Illinois Wetlands
Wetlands are making a comeback in Illinois. Wetlands of all sizes filter pollutants, provide protection from floods, recharge groundwater and serve as wildlife and fish habitat. But despite their enormous economic and ecological value, less than 10% of Illinois’ original 8 million acres of...

March 30, 2026

Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts, and more
Would you like to grow your own fresh produce? Are you new to gardening or an experienced pro? Do you want to learn more about the crops we can grow in our backyards? Join Horticulture Educator...

Overhead side view of bin set up at U of I Feed Technology Center in Urbana

March 30, 2026

Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week Kickoff Event
Working around grain is a dangerous role that many perform every day. Learn ways to ensure that safety is at the forefront of a workday by attending in person or tuning in to the livestream of the 2026 Grain Safety Week Kickoff...

April 1, 2026

I'll Go with You: Supporting Youth Through Trauma and Into Trauma-Focused Treatments
Learn practical, compassionate strategies to help young people heal after difficult experiences.Traumas are common; we will all experience scary and upsetting events in our lives, and there is great potential for growth and healing afterward. Join PhD candidate Aggie Rieger to...

April 6, 2026

Root Crops: Carrots, Radishes, Beets, Potatoes, and Onions
Would you like to grow your own fresh produce? Are you new to gardening or an experienced pro? Do you want to learn more about the crops we can grow in our backyards? Join Horticulture Educator...

January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026

Healthy Living Challenge
Join us for a healthy challenge for youth ages 5-18!  Sign up to receive your Healthy Living Calendar.  Each month, there is a coloring sheet for you to complete at your own leisure to help promote mindfulness and mental health. We also have a challenge each month that focuses on an...

2026 Chick Embryology Grundy, Kankakee, and Will Counties

January 26, 2026 - March 31, 2026

Classroom Chicken Embryology
Bring hands on learning to the classroomTeachers, are you looking for a hands on science program for your classroom? Families, are you looking for something unique to do at home that is exciting and a great learning opportunity? Illinois Extension is once again offering the University of Illinois...

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