The University of Illinois Extension Countryside Center provides counties and communities with a wide range of research-based information and program opportunities. The Countryside staff works to meet the needs of rural, urban, and suburban residents in the following areas:

• Agriculture and Natural Resources
• Community and Economic Development
• Consumer and Family Economics
• Horticulture (both commercial & home - covering fruit, vegetable, plant diseases, insects, and ornamental plant care)
• Nutrition and Wellness
• Pest Management
• Youth Development

Societal and economic issues of today are complex and inter-related. Environmental issues, health and wellness, food safety, money management, retirement, crop disease, and youth development are issues that affect us all. Traditionally known for agricultural programming, today's Extension responds to the needs of individuals, businesses, and communities.

The University of Illinois Extension Educators at Countryside work as a team with Extension Educators throughout Illinois to address the complex issues of today. Extension Educators help the citizens of Illinois put knowledge to work.