U of I Extension is assessing the COMMUNITY GARDENS in our county, and has created a survey to gather more information. Click below to take the quick online survey.

To learn more about COMMUNITY GARDENING, visit our program page at http:

Interested in becoming a MASTER GARDENER? We are now taking applications for the 2010 training program, which runs from January-April 2010. Click below to access online application; deadline to apply is December 1, 2009.

On December 10, join the Extension office for TERRA MADRE DAY, a worldwide celebration of Local Foods, when we present the movie FRESH at the Discovery Center Museum Theater. Call the Extension office at 815-986-4357 to reserve your seat at this free event. Click below for event and movie information.

FRESH Movie Trailer - Join us on December 10 for this free event presented by U of I Extension-Winnebago and the Winnebago County Local Foods Group.

U of I Extension-Winnebago County will host a PRIVATE PESTICIDE SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM & TESTING CLINIC on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at US Bank in Pecatonica, Illinois. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to Noon followed by a test at Noon that will be administered by the IDA. Clinic fee is $30 and preregistration is required; this fee is for training only and is separate from the $20 licensing fee charged by IDA. Click below to register.

It's Turkey Time! Visit U of I Extension's website TURKEY FOR THE HOLIDAYS for turkey safety, cooking, and nutrition information, as well as fun facts and trivia.

Visit the U of I Extension H1N1 VIRUS website for national resources and links to keep your family and you healthy.

Visit PUMPKINS AND MORE, Extension's website filled with information about pumpkin history, varieties of pumpkins, selection and use, and nutrition. In addition, there are several links for parents and teachers to find fun activities for students.

If you are interested in attending or participating in our Spring 2010 OPENFIELDS FARM TOUR, contact our Local Foods Coordinator, Andy Hazzard, for details.

Interested in our MASTER NATURALIST training program? We are now taking applications for the Spring 2010 training session. Click below for more information and to apply online.

University of Illinois Extension-Winnebago County introduces its new LOCAL FOODS INITIATIVE weblink. We are actively working with local producers, restaurants, farmers markets and other related agencies to address issues related to the local foods system in the county and the surrounding area. Click "learn more".