Events

Blog Posts

Frost crack on apple tree branch
Read article: Exploding trees? A closer look at frost cracking
Exploding trees? A closer look at frost cracking
Exploding trees made quite a few headlines this past week when winter temperatures dropped across much of the country. While the claim of trees...
A row of topped trees
Read article: Tree topping is never a good option
Tree topping is never a good option
As spring approaches, many of us will reach for the pruners or contact a tree care company to have our shade trees pruned. Pruning can improve tree...
view of trees looking up in winter
Read article: “Exploding” trees? Probably not
“Exploding” trees? Probably not
Much has been in the news lately about “exploding trees”, caused by the extreme cold temperatures.  But is this something to be worried about?...
mug of hot chocolate
Read article: Celebrating Hot Chocolate Day
Celebrating Hot Chocolate Day
Hot Chocolate Day is January 31, inviting us to appreciate the plants and traditions that make this beverage possible. While hot chocolate feels like...

News Releases

Tree Planting event with a group
Plant a tree in Woodford County; help the planet
 Carlock, Ill. – Woodford County is looking for volunteers to help with planting a grouping of 25 oak trees at Parklands Chinquapin Bluffs in Woodford County with the goal of tackling global issues at the local level. Carbon...
Extension Forester Chris Evans shows off homemade maple syrup at a workshop.
Maple syrup workshop continues sweet tradition with tenth-annual event
SIMPSON, Ill. — Each February, local participants brave the cold to learn more about maple syrup production at an annual workshop at Dixon Springs Ag Center. The event is a fun day for the entire family, with a 4-H fundraiser pancake breakfast to start the morning and hands-on activities for...
A man leans on a tool outside by a tree surrounded by a group of people
Extension foresters protect trees, empower landowners
URBANA, Ill. — As the saying goes, the hope is that trees will “bloom where they’re planted.” Still, sometimes even these plant powerhouses need help overcoming challenges like invasive species, urban...

Videos

Making Maple Syrup - A Basic Introduction

Explore the basics of all of the steps involved in making maple syrup as Extension Forester Chris Evans walks through the maple syrup production process at the Dixon Springs Agricultural Center in southern Illinois. 

Be Safe When Trimming Trees Near Power Lines

Trees and power lines often find themselves mingling together causing safety concerns and requiring a utility’s attention. Oftentimes people aren’t happy about what has to happen next. From funny shaped trees to proper trimming techniques to picking out the right tree to plant around lines, this...

Staff