Sign in

University of Illinois Extension

@extension.illinois.edu
325 followers 77 following 299 posts

Illinois Extension is the flagship outreach effort of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

PostsRepliesMedia
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 14/08/2026
This fall, do yourself a favor and let go of "clean up" yard work. Because sometimes the best way to help is to sit back and let things happen naturally. Join Everyday Environment for a conversation with Chicago garden coach Amy Powers. extension.illinois.edu/blogs/everyd…
Tree trunk and grassy, leaf‑strewn ground with badge and blue banner reading Naturalistic Gardening by Illinois Extension
042
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 01/08/2026
Happy National Sunflower Day 🌻 Sunflowers are more than a summer favorite. Blooms provide valuable pollen for pollinators, while their seeds can feed both people and wildlife.  More:
extension.illinois.edu
How to grow sunflowers at home - A great addition to any garden
Sunflowers (Helianthus annus) are a great addition to the home garden. Not only do they provide colorful flowers, but they can also be a potential food source for
020
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 21/07/2026
Get a bird's eye view of the Doris Kelly Christopher Illinois Extension Center✨ This innovative building will support hands-on learning, collaboration with campus and community, and give Illinois residents new ways to engage with Extension programming.
youtube.com
Doris Kelly Christopher Illinois Extension Center: Flyover May 2026
A bold vision for the future is becoming a reality. Explore the inn...
020
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 19/07/2026
Did you know, Illinois is home to 6 species of cicadas? Their nighttime calls are the sound of summer and you can learn to tell them apart with the Voice of the Wild podcast.  Hear them all at extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/voi…
0143
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 14/07/2026
Congratulations to Illinois Extension County Director Tara Buerster on her election to the National Epsilon Sigma Phi Board of Directors! 
extension.illinois.edu
University of Illinois Extension County Director Elected to National Epsilon Sigma Phi Board of Directors
ALBION, Ill. — Tara Buerster, county director for University of Illinois Extension serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties, has been elected
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 12/07/2026
To commemorate its 150th anniversary, this Big Ten Network documentary explores the lasting impact of the Morrow Plots. Established in 1876, it is the oldest continuous experimental crop field in the United States and second oldest in the world.
youtube.com
Rooted in Discovery: The Morrow Plots
To commemorate its 150th anniversary, this Big Ten Network document...
030
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 11/07/2026
No bridge or barn is complete without a few barn swallow mud nests! No other swallow in North America has a tail as deeply forked, but despite this, they are tricky to identify because they fly fast Learn this bird's call on Voice of the Wild: extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/voi…
Barn swallow perched on barbed wire against a green background; promotional Voice of the Wild graphic.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 10/07/2026
Wildlife sometimes have to decide between “fight or flight,” and bees are pretty good at flight! So why do they sometimes fight? 🐝 Explore how to coexist with these pollinators in the Illinois Wildside blog!
extension.illinois.edu
Bees, Wasps, and Hornets
Everyone loves seeing an adorable bee, covered in pollen, descending into a flower for another helping. Native bees — like many other animal pollinators — are relied
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 05/07/2026
The News-Gazette recently highlighted the progress on the Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center, which will serve as a statewide hub for learning, collaboration, and innovation.  Learn more: shorturl.at/obbMt.
shorturl.at
New center aims for spring opening
Outreach Associate Bobbie Lewis-Sibley: “All of Extension works in our communities to address local needs. But this building can help be that resource and that support so that they can
020
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 03/07/2026
Catch sight of a large raptor soaring overhead with a white head? Congrats! You're looking at a conservation success story — the bald eagle! 🦅 Learn all about the U.S. national bird on Voice of the Wild: extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/voi…
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 23/06/2026
Thinking about switching from dairy? This episode breaks down common milk alternatives and the key nutrients to consider before making the swap.  🎙️Tune in to our new podcast to learn more extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/wel…
Three wooden scoops with oats, coconut and rice under milk bottles; poster promoting milk alternatives.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 21/06/2026
Summer is here! 🌻 From gardening and farmers markets to food preservation and youth programs, University of Illinois Extension is here with research-based resources to help you make the most of the season. Explore tips, programs, and opportunities happening across Illinois: extension.illinois.edu
030
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 20/06/2026
Looking for a yellow-billed cuckoo? You'll have better luck hearing this mysterious bird's strange call, which sounds like tapping on a block of wood. Listen to Voice of the Wild on your favorite podcast platform or at extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/voi…
Yellow-billed cuckoo perched on a tree trunk with blurred foliage; poster title "Voice of the Wild" — Illinois Extension.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 18/06/2026
Learn the key differences, common symptoms, and where hidden milk ingredients may be found in everyday foods in our latest Wellness Wake Up Call podcast. 🎧Listen to learn more extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/wel…
Person clutching their abdomen while holding a glass of milk, representing milk allergy versus intolerance.
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 17/06/2026
✨ This week’s blog, Growing Minds All Summer Long, shares why intentional family activities matter — and offers simple ideas to support literacy, problem‑solving, and healthy development all season. extension.illinois.edu/blogs/family…
Two children blowing bubbles outdoors beside text promoting summer learning: "Growing minds all summer long."
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 13/06/2026
Are you a new homeowner? Congrats! When you're done unpacking, do an electrical safety check to help prevent shocks, fires, and costly repairs 💡  • Label your breaker box • Look for damaged cords • Know when to call an electrician
safeelectricity.org
Welcome Home: National Homeownership Month - Safe Electricity
A new homeowner’s electrical safety checklist  National Homeownership Month is a perfect reminder that a new home isn’t just about paint colors and furniture layouts — it’s also about making sure it’s safe. Before you get too far into unpacking and settling in, take a little time to learn your home’s electrical system, spot common […]
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 11/06/2026
Community members will be able to explore current health research, access reliable information, and engage directly with U. of I. researchers.  Read for more information: extension.illinois.edu/news-release…
Person stretching on grass on a poster for Community Seminar Series: Summer Self‑Care 2026 (CEU, Illinois Extension)
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 11/06/2026
Managing Rainfall Extremes ☔ Illinois Extension shares practical solutions like rain gardens, rain barrels, native plants, bioswales, & permeable surfaces to help reduce flooding, improve water quality, & conserve water during droughts. More: extension.illinois.edu/rainfall-man…
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 10/06/2026
✅This blog shares simple ways to become a more intentional family and make meaningful moments stick. extension.illinois.edu/blogs/family…
Parents smiling and holding a baby in a sunlit field, with the message "Be an intentional family" and Illinois Extension logo.
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 09/06/2026
The soil under our feet is more than dirt. Healthy soil has microbes that support plant health, break down crop residues, and cycle nutrients into a form plants can use.
extension.illinois.edu
The role of the soil microbiome in reducing nutrient loss
In episode 81 of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Podcast, Dr.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 08/06/2026
This new blog offers practical ways to manage stress and take that first step toward prevention with more confidence and less worry. Read the full blog: extension.illinois.edu/blogs/family…
Smiling clinician talking with a patient; overlaid text: practical tips to face medical test anxiety (Illinois Extension).
020
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 07/06/2026
When it comes to adding native grasses to your landscape, these four options are tried and true:  • Prairie dropseed • Little bluestem • River oats • Side oats gramma
extension.illinois.edu
Popular native grasses for the home landscape
Grasses can help provide groundcover, increase root competition to keep other native plants shorter, improve soil health, and increase water capture. While there
042
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 07/06/2026
Summertime means visits to Lake Michigan, where the waters are cool, and the coastline is always changing 🌊 Explore how to protect them in the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant Shaping the Shoreline series. iiseagrant.org/work/coastal-resilience/programs-initiatives/shaping-the-shoreline-video-series
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 06/06/2026
Summer heat is on its way. With energy costs on the rise, save energy to save money:  • Seal cracks with weather stripping/caulk • Change the air filter and clear air vents • Install a programmable thermostate • Use fans More tips: extension.illinois.edu/energy/seaso…
Summer is coming — prepare your home now checklist: seal cracks, change AC filter, clean outdoor unit, clear vents.
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 03/06/2026
“Home First”, a new Illinois Extension curriculum, designed to help communities take a more grounded, resident-first look at tourism, recreation, and visitor development.  extension.illinois.edu/blogs/buildi…
Two kayakers paddling on a calm river toward a tree-lined shore, a dock and truss bridge visible.
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 02/06/2026
While "leaves of 3, leave it be" usually works for identifying poison ivy the plant is tricky. It can be a shrub or a vine. It can pop up in a forest or a roadside. And leaves can range from tiny to dinner-plate size.
extension.illinois.edu
On Poison Ivy
Dealing with the effects of a “run-in” with the poison ivy plant is probably the most common negative wildlife encounter people in the Midwest experience (mosquitoes
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 01/06/2026
This training allows participants to become a Dementia Friend — someone who understands what it’s like to live with dementia and knows practical ways to offer support. Become a Dementia Friend ✅June 9 at 2 p.m. ✅Register at: extension.illinois.edu/events/2026-…
Caregiver holding an older man's shoulder; overlay promotes Become a Dementia Friend with dates and Illinois Extension logo.
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 31/05/2026
Morrow Plots project will coincide with 150th anniversary 🌽 Established in 1876, the Morrow Plots is a national symbol of agricultural innovation and remain a National Historic Landmark. More: morrow.aces.illinois.edu/bayer-gift…
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 28/05/2026
Throwback Thursday to the buzz of the 2025 cicada brood in Illinois. From their unmistakable songs to the excitement of spotting them across the state, these remarkable insects made last spring one to remember. Learn more: extension.illinois.edu/insects/cica….
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 26/05/2026
Find a rewarding career with Illinois Extension 🌱 From agriculture and youth development to nutrition, horticulture, communications, and community outreach, there are opportunities to grow your career while creating local impact. Get started: extension.illinois.edu/global/caree….
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 25/05/2026
Home food preservation keeps seasonal flavors alive year-round. From canning to freezing, safe, science‑based methods preserve flavor, nutrition, and well‑being. ✅Explore our trusted resources and start preserving with confidence. extension.illinois.edu/food-preserv…
Canned tomato jars with title 'Food Preservation Resources' promoting safe, science-based methods from Illinois Extension.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 24/05/2026
From your backyard to the local forest, invasive species have big environmental and economic impacts. Learn how to manage invasive plants in a two-day program with a day of online learning on June 9 and a hands-on field day from June 10-12.  go.illinois.edu/IntroInvasives.
Red berries and green leaves with title "Introduction to Invasive Species Management" and Illinois Extension logo.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 23/05/2026
A summer visitor to parts of Illinois, count yourself lucky if you hear the black-throated blue warbler's "Zoo zoo zoo zee" call on a woodland hike! More Voice of the Wild at extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/voi… Audio from: Macaulay Library, Cornell Lab @birdsoftheworld.bsky.social
Black-throated blue warbler perched on a branch; graphic for Voice of the Wild, Illinois Extension.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 23/05/2026
Memorial Day marks the start of summer grilling season.  👉 Read the full blog to kick off summer with flavor and food safety. extension.illinois.edu/blogs/live-w…
Man in a green apron grilling outdoors, smiling; overlaid text: Memorial Day Grilling Safety Tips and Illinois Extension
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 23/05/2026
When it comes to managing invasive species, one piece that's often overlooked is what happens after removal. Join the Everyday Environment team to learn about restoration.
extension.illinois.edu
Stories from the field: Managing invasive species at Emiquon Preserve
When water returned to the floodplain at The Nature Conservancy’s Emiquon Preserve in west central Illinois, it marked a major restoration success.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 22/05/2026
Get weekly Illinois crop reports from Extension's experts right to your inbox every Friday throughout the growing season in farmdoc daily’s The Bulletin.  🔗 Subscribe or bookmark farmdoc’s The Bulletin: go.illinois.edu/TheBulletin
Young crop seedling in a field at sunrise, ahead of a blurred corn field photo in the background, with headline reading Illinois Crop Update, Illinois Extension, and an orange University of Illinois I-Block logo.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 22/05/2026
Add beauty, privacy, & vertical interest to your landscape with vines. From annual climbers to long-lasting perennial favorites, vines can brighten fences, trellises, & garden spaces while attracting pollinators like butterflies & hummingbirds. More: extension.illinois.edu/flowers/vines
031
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 21/05/2026
Hunters Feeding Illinois delivered 138,900 servings of lean protein to families across 48 counties this season. ✅Read the full story extension.illinois.edu/news-release…
Male deer with large antlers in tall grass at dusk; cover about hunters' impact in Illinois
000
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 21/05/2026
With spring planting on the move, Agronomy Days will soon be here. The season-long field day series teaches Illinois growers about the latest breakthroughs in crop research. Events run from June through August around the state.  2026 Event Calendar: agronomyday.web.illinois.edu/events
People riding on a seated trailer being pulled around a field day event by a green tractor.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 20/05/2026
Thinking about becoming a cottage food seller in Illinois?   Our updated Cottage Food Guide is here to help you understand the rules, requirements, and opportunities for home‑based food businesses. extension.illinois.edu/cottage-food
Hands holding a plate of raisin buns with overlay text promoting 'Start Your Cottage Food Business — New 2026 updates'.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 18/05/2026
Get ready for an Illinois Pesticide Applicator test with newly updated training manuals. - Find the general manual and other pesticide guides at pubsplus.illinois.edu/collections/pesticide-safety. - Explore online pesticide applicator training options at extension.illinois.edu/psep.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 16/05/2026
Keep an eye out for poison hemlock and wild parsnip, which are a threat to humans and animals. Both are common across Illinois and are in bloom this time of year.  More at extension.illinois.edu/blogs/garden…
Wild parsnip (yellow umbels) and poison hemlock (white umbels) under heading "Dangerous Plants to Watch Out For."
096
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 16/05/2026
💡 Ready for fresh ideas that bring more balance into your day?   Check out the full post and try a few new habits this week for alternatives to screen time. publish.illinois.edu/smartfamilies/…
Person silhouette using a tablet over a large clock; purple banner reads "Alternatives to Screen Time" with Illinois Extension logo.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 15/05/2026
The gleam of golden oyster mushrooms has become a bit tarnished as this fungus has started popping up in forests where they compete with native fungi and change the ecosystem 🍄
extension.illinois.edu
A golden opportunity to learn that mushrooms can be invasive too
You’ve heard of invasive plants and animals, but what about mushrooms? Around Illinois, you won’t have to look far to find invasive mushrooms.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 15/05/2026
Help older adults stay connected with quick reads on healthy living and fun activities to support cognition. Download the newest issue of the Quarterly Companion newsletter: go.illinois.edu/QCspring2026
Smiling older man by a window on a cover titled "Quarterly Companion: Around the Table" with Illinois Extension logo.
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 14/05/2026
Ready to add a little sunshine to your garden? Mid-May is the perfect time to plant sunflowers, bringing bold summer color while giving bees and other pollinators a place to feed. Get started 🌻 extension.illinois.edu/news-release…
041
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 13/05/2026
Illinois Extension's Carissa Nelson and Mynda Tracy receive Chancellor’s Staff Excellence Award 🏆 Read more about our award recipients: news.illinois.edu/fifteen-employees….
011
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 11/05/2026
Dealing with food allergies doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition or flavor. You can make healthy substitutions that keep meals safe and satisfying. 🎙️Listen to learn more extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/wel…
Common allergen foods (nuts, egg, milk, soy, wheat, shellfish, fish, dried fruit) promoting healthy substitutions.
020
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 09/05/2026
When birds strike windows, the problem is clear...literally. For birds, big windows are just another area to fly, often with fatal consequences. Learn more with Illinois Wildside.
extension.illinois.edu
An opaque solution to a clear global conservation threat
The “built” environment is made by humans, for humans. You’re very accustomed to the built environment and probably wouldn’t want to live without the comforts it
010
University of Illinois Extension @extension.illinois.edu · 09/05/2026
1 fish, 2 fish, 10 fish, 10,000 fish?! Invasive carp have been in Illinois for decades and are spreading 🐟 Learn more with Illinois Natural History Survey biologist Steve Butler
extension.illinois.edu
Invasive carp impact Illinois waterways
On one warm afternoon last June, I suddenly throttled down the boat as a barrage of silver carp leaped out of the water and pummeled my assistants and me, leaving
010