By Carla Rich Montez, Extension Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell countiesIt’s not easy to examine the life of an animal that is secretive, solitary and nocturnal.Just ask any scientist who has attempted to study the American badger. In fact, details about its...

Invasive Species   Invasive species refer to any harmful non-native plant, animal, or organism that can negatively impact the environment, economy, and human or animal health. These species can be found in both aquatic and terrestrial areas. Each reproductive part of an invasive species,...

There are a few simple steps to prevent the spread of invasive species. Avoid moving soil or debris from one area to another. When engaging in fishing, hiking, hunting, or camping activities, ensure that your clothes, footwear, and equipment are free of soil and debris before entering...

By Jennifer Bass, Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties“It Seemed the Natural Thing to Do!”When I was growing up, I lived on a farm with a large yard and two wonderful timbers. My mother had many flower beds with some natives...

Are you curious about trees, their hidden stories, their ecological significance, and how they shape our world? If so, join us as we start our 2024 book study.  We're excited to announce a deep dive into the world of trees through a reading series. This journey will take us through six...

The USDA Hardiness Zone Map has been updated to reflect temperature data collected over the last 30 years. This new map version used GIS technology and input from climate, botanical, and horticulture experts to create hardiness zones on a much finer scale.   Updated to Zone 6A Locally, the...

By Ellen Denler, Extension Master Gardener, serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell countiesMy husband John and I live in the house in which I grew up. The original part of the house was built in 1878 and has had five generations of my family living here. Located on a corner lot (105' X 55') in...

Getting Started with Seed Saving If you find the perfect tasting tomato, harvesting and saving the seed will ensure you can have that tomato again next season. The seed stores the genetic information for a new plant. With a bit of practice and patience, you can have the seeds of your favorite...

Growing food is not limited to outdoors in the summer. With some planning, you can grow food indoors throughout the year. Make a plan Before starting your indoor kitchen garden, it is essential to think about what you want to gain by growing food indoors. You might wish to have herbs to give...

By Laura Bradshaw, Extension Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties The topic of the importance of pollinators is becoming more and more common. People are realizing the importance and taking action such as providing pollinator friendly plants and habitat....

Peat wetlands are delicate ecosystems that take thousands of years to form. Peat accumulates at a rate of about 1 millimeter per year. When the peat moss industry harvests 22 centimeters per year, it is easy to see why there is a concern for its sustainability.  Many rare plants and animals...

By Carla Rich Montez, Extension Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties   “A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise.”  Aldo Leopold, A Sand...

By Jeff and Nancy Staecker, Extension Master Naturalists serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties Over the last 20 years we’ve lost billions of birds – birds that are both beautiful and play critical roles in the environment… such as eating pests. We do not know all the complex...

There are many reasons to grow your vegetables, including health benefits, better flavor, and environmental protection. The health benefits are exponential with the combination of nutrients, sunshine, and exercise gained through vegetable gardening. Studies show that those who garden are more...