Extension Snapshots 2026

What began as a simple phone call from Jerald Schier, Manito village trustee, in Spring 2024 grew into a community effort to revitalize the town. Manito Revive and Thrive community meetings were a catalyst for the village’s new strategic plan. Local...

For the past decade, farm profits have been highly volatile making farm business planning difficult. Grain prices have been all over the board — down, up, and back down. Input costs have also been unstable. These and many other factors can create a lot of stress for producers. University of...

This winter, Fulton County 4-H offered an appetizing adventure for young creators—a food decorating workshop designed to help youth express their artistic flair through frosting and fun. Part of the 4-H Visual Arts project...

Positive youth development starts with providing a safe, welcoming environment. 4-H clubs led by caring volunteers are a key component of a successful 4-H program. The 4-H staff serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell...

Joli Pierson, Mason 4-H coordinator, retires from Extension In preparing for retirement from Illinois Extension after nearly 26 years at the Mason County branch office, Joli Pierson finds herself filled with gratitude and reflection. “What began as a job became a calling, and over the...