Illinois Extension is committed to addressing the pressing issues of changing climate conditions by leveraging Illinois Extension’s resources, expertise, and partnerships to prepare Illinois for a more informed and resilient future.

Extension’s internal capacity will be strengthened with increased full-time staff devoted to climate change programming and with program area-specific climate change leaders across the state. Focus on reinforcing trusted connections with campus-based climate change researchers, external partners, and local community groups will expand Extension’s efforts in this climate initiative. Expansion of our internal and external capacity in this topic area will result in significant evidence-based publications and learning opportunities for the public.

Extension also plans to improve outreach efforts through the integration of climate education into all existing programming areas and through the expansion of the Illinois Extension Climate Stewards program. The workshops and training of Extension staff, Illinois residents, and local leaders, can build ecosystem and community resilience in our changing climate. These efforts will be community-driven, leveraging existing resources and addressing the needs of our most at-risk Illinois communities.

Partnerships will be prioritized, drawing on expertise at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Midwest Climate Hub, among other groups. These efforts will raise awareness of climate adaptation, mitigation, and environmental justice, bolster climate resilient programming, and facilitate local community-based climate actions for a sustainable future.