Recognizing heat-related warning signs for gardeners and landscapers
URBANA, Ill. — Landscaping and gardening are great physical exercises, and studies show they are good for emotional well-being. But those working outside must remain aware of the dangers associated with heat stress on their bodies.
“When I was working as a landscaper, we had to sod a...
Martens Center hosts resource-rich Extension Day with Illinois Extension
CHAMPAIGN, Ill — University of Illinois Extension and the Champaign Parks District threw open the doors to the Martens Center on Saturday, May 11, for Extension Day. Nearly 300 people attended the event and got to take advantage of the wonderful resources from Extension, the Park District,...
Spend summer days growing, supporting gardens with webinar series
URBANA, Ill. — Get ready to spend summer days outdoors gardening, exploring, and enjoying the growing season by adding in Four Seasons Gardening webinars beginning June 11. University of...
Illinois Conservation Police dive into preventing spread of aquatic invasive species
DECATUR, Ill. — A group of 150 Illinois Conservation Police Officers gathered in Decatur for a hands-on workshop on aquatic invasive species during their annual meeting this spring. Developed by the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant aquatic invasive species team in...
Rainfall management outreach, engagement expands with grant from American Water
URBANA, Ill. — It can be frustrating when a spring storm washes away new plants or when a summer drought leaves a garden wilting. Whether it’s too much or too little, University of Illinois Extension provides resources and examples for how to manage rainfall and what homeowners and communities...
Booker T. Washington STEM Academy celebrates global delights with Illinois Extension
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Booker T. Washington STEM Academy buzzed with international excitement on April 26, 2024, as Illinois Extension hosted a vibrant Cultural Day celebration for elementary students.“Many of our families expressed a desire for their cultures to be represented in our cultural...
Add a dash of herbs to spice up floral bouquets
URBANA, Ill. — Cultivating a cut flower garden filled with favorites can be a fun family project that can become budget-friendly gifts for everyone. Adding herbs to a garden and bouquets will create a unique, personal touch to designs. Fresh herbs look and smell amazing and will be long-...
4-H public speaking contest participants show hard work, courage
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – 4-H excels in preparing youth to speak well and confidently, and it is a skill that serves members for a lifetime. Youth from across the state recently came together to put their public speaking skills to the test during the Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest...
Level up safety first thinking during the spring planting season
URBANA, Ill. — Current spring weather conditions have a lot of tractors parked for now, but when the weather clears and fields dry, it will be a fast-paced season for planting 2024 statewide.
Although another Midwest farming season may seem routine, the agriculture industry is highly...
Extension’s dedication to environment grows with new campus natural resources expert
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The wild spaces of Illinois are smaller than what they once were, but the forests and prairies that remain are vital for wildlife and the ecosystem services they provide. Across the state, University of Illinois Extension’s network of natural resource experts connects...
Illinois crop competition calls for youth scouting teams
URBANA, Ill. — The Illinois Youth Crop Scouting Competition is not just any competition. It is a unique opportunity for agriculture students to showcase skills and knowledge while working on a team competing for a prize...
Youth gain self-confidence in horse speaking contest
Urbana, Ill. – The Illinois 4-H Horse Speaking contest helps youth gain self-confidence, courage and persuasiveness; share ideas with others; and develop the ability to speak in public to inform others about horse-related subjects and the 4-H Horse project. This year’s contest was held April 13...
Youth demonstrate expert equine knowledge, passion for horses in hippology contest
Urbana, Ill. -- In 4-H, learning about horses means much more than learning to ride. Young people with a passion for horses participated in recent statewide educational contests related to the equine industry. 4-H’s educational programs enhance members’ knowledge of horse health, breed...
Plant positivity, learn how to grow a school or community garden
URBANA, Ill. — When green spaces fill schoolyards and neighborhoods with flowers and fresh produce, children and communities thrive. But the journey from the idea of starting a community or school-based garden to planting one that is built to last is long. What funding sources are available?...
Kenneth D. Bailey students learn career and financial skills with Illinois Extension and 4-H
DANVILLE, Ill. – Students at Kenneth D. Bailey Academy participated in a Welcome to the Real World Simulation on April 19, 2024. The simulation is the culminating event of the Welcome to the Real World Curriculum, a program developed by University of Illinois Extension Family...
4-H showmanship clinic prepares young stars for fairs
GEORGETOWN, Ill. – Aspiring young livestock exhibitors can gain a competitive edge with the 4-H Showmanship Clinic held directly before the Swine and Beef Showdown in Georgetown. The clinic offers separate sessions for...
Enjoy the silence. Cicadas are coming
If you haven't heard the buzz, you will soon. Billions of periodical cicadas are coming, and University of Illinois Extension is sharing information to help track their moves before emergence.
“Historically speaking, 2024 is a big year for...
Free Pressure Canner Lid Testing Available at Local Extension Offices
URBANA, Ill — Calling all home canners! The University of Illinois Extension is offering a helping hand to ensure your favorite jams, jellies, and vegetables are preserved safely this season with free pressure canner lid testing clinics throughout May.
These open clinics are perfect...