From garden composting, to using lawn fertilizers to weed control in ponds, respect and concern for our environment is important in University of Illinois Extension educational outreach programs.

Over 2,500 phone calls were answered in regard to home gardens, lawn and tree care.

Champaign County Master Gardener Idea Garden at the University of Illinois Arboretum showcases gardening fundamentals and new plant varieties. Saturday workshops during the spring and summer encouraged more than 160 gardeners to try new gardening methods and stewardship.

Weekly newspaper columns and participation in the WILL-TV Illinois Gardener program promotes proper pesticide usage, composting, landscaping for wildlife and recycling in the garden.

37 area gardeners participated in the Biological Pest Control Workshop.

Nine Master Gardeners conducted at-home trials of biological pest control methods in cooperation with a bistate practical research study conducted by Purdue University.

More than 100 farmers received training and certification to use restricted use chemicals. Training helps in applying appropriate pest management techniques.

38 volunteers completed 55 hours of training to become Master Gardeners. Training includes pesticide usage, tree, shrub, flower and lawn care.

Champaign County Master Gardeners have given 1,600 hours of volunteer time to the community through teaching others and demonstrating gardening techniques.