4-H youth showcase agricultural excellence at national competition
Louisville, Ky. — 4-H youth headed to the North American International Livestock Exposition to compete in educational contests held as a part of the exposition held Nov. 2-16 in Louisville.
The expo drew more than 27,000 livestock entries from...
Sweet Success: 4-H Candy Making Workshop Delights at Hamilton County
On November 17th, 2023, the Hamilton County 4-H office transformed into a confectionery wonderland as eager 4-Hers gathered for a festive candy making workshop. The event not only stirred up the holiday spirit but also served as a hands-on learning experience for the young participants, who dove...
Illinois 4-H teams make history in Louisville
Louisville, Ky. -- Illinois 4-H had a record-breaking day at the North American International Livestock Exposition. For the first time ever, Illinois 4-H won the National 4-H Quiz Bowl. For the second year in a row, Illinois 4-H won the National 4-H...
4-H members ignite their future leadership path
Decatur, Ill.-- Over 100 seventh and eighth grade youth learned ways to improve their leadership skills at the 2023 space-themed 4-H Junior Leadership Conference held Nov. 4-5 at the Decatur Hotel and Conference Center in Decatur.
“This event helps youth from all over Illinois gain a new...
Protect your pets: Keep paws off overwintering indoor plants
URBANA, Ill. — As winter settles in, many plants and houseplants that were growing outdoors have returned inside. Before bringing in your plants, consider animal companions, such as dogs and cats, because some plants can make them sick if ingested. Knowing what plants you have and how they...
Geology Exploration at Millstone Bluff
On November 4, 2023, Unit 24 4-Hers had the unique opportunity to learn about geological layers and explore for fossils at Millstone Bluff and Millstone Lake. This informative session was led by Joe Devera, a Paleontologist associated with the Illinois State Geological Survey. The event aimed to...
Sharpening knowledge of tree care leads to healthier, better-looking trees
URBANA, Ill. — Trees are a beautiful and vital part of our communities, providing many long-term benefits to the public. Routine maintenance and proper care techniques contribute to a longer, healthier life.
“Trees improve the local environment, economy, and overall quality of life,”...
ACES Expert: Nature exposure can ease ADHD symptoms
URBANA, Ill. — As organizations bring attention to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in October for ADHD awareness month, a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign expert says time in nature can ease symptoms of the common...
New committee to drive inclusivity and equity initiatives in Illinois 4-H
Champaign, IL – Illinois 4-H is marking the establishment of a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Implementation Committee. This newly formed committee will advise and collaborate in the implementation of DEIA priorities recently identified through a strategic planning...
Learn essential tips for a better aging life experience
URBANA, Ill. — As people age, they face many changes and challenges, from losing loved ones to declining health and independence. That's why it's essential to give them the meaning they need to live this stage of life with dignity. University of Illinois...
Competition builds camaraderie, sense of friendly competition
BUNKER HILL, Ill. — The best teenage 4-H shotgun shooters from Illinois gathered to shoot a full 100 rounds of trap shooting at Brittany Shooting Park near Bunker Hill on Sept. 23. A crowd of nearly 250 gathered for this event.
Seventy shooters were on hand for this year’s competition....
Report spotted lanternflies in Illinois to help slow the spread of invasive pest
URBANA, Ill. — The invasive insect spotted lanternfly has been found in Illinois for the first time. Residents are being warned to watch out for and report sightings of this pest which can damage trees. Experts confirmed a population of the pests in Cook County on September 18 according to a...
What is needed to create a long-term sustainable food system for Illinois?
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois food growers, distributors and activists voiced solutions for creating a more resilient and equitable food system in Illinois: support for growers and producers of all experience levels, investment in education and marketing strategies, and advocacy engagement to secure...
Youth-led initiative creates local action, statewide change
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Counties across Illinois were tasked with gathering non-perishable food and care items as part of the annual, statewide 4-H Can Make a Difference Food Drive held in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Aug. 11-13.
“In Illinois, over a million people face hunger,...
Partnership and perseverance end food desert in Illinois’ southernmost city
CAIRO, Ill. — Illinois’ southernmost city, Cairo, is home to just over 1,700 people, and for the past seven years, those residents have been without a local grocery store, greatly limiting access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food. On Friday, June 16, that all changed.
The new...
Start spring early by forcing branches to bloom indoors
The weather during late winter can feel like being on a roller coaster. One day, it feels like spring, and the next, we are reminded that it’s still winter. To help tide you over, you can try forcing some spring-flowering trees and shrubs to bloom early and bring some bright spring colors...
Regional Food Summit Addressing Food Access and Security Across Southern Illinois
Hunger is often hidden, but it is a huge issue in southern Illinois. In fact, according to Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap, more than 45,000 (14.3%) southern Illinoisans struggle with having enough food to eat. Food insecurity affects adults and children, with rates among children ranging by...
