University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners of Mercer County invite the public to an evening of educational and engaging presentations. Join them from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, September 19, at the Aledo Fire Station for two insightful talks that will deepen your understanding of the connections between gardening, weather, and climate resilience.
The evening will kick off with a presentation by Steve Hilberg, the Illinois CoCoRaHS Coordinator, titled “Garden Weather—A Part of the Big Picture.” Gardeners, regardless of their expertise, are often keen observers of weather patterns. CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow network, is a grassroots initiative where citizens can measure and share precipitation data from their own backyards. Learn how you can contribute to this nationwide effort and make your observations count in your local community and beyond.
Next, Emily Swihart, Illinois Extension horticulture educator, will present “The Connection Between Our Trees and Climate Resilience.” This session will explore the relationship between trees in our home and community landscapes and the changing climate. Emily will provide insights into the vital role trees play in our environment, offer strategies for making informed planting choices, and discuss how climate change is impacting our urban forests.
Registration Information: The registration fee is $10. Appetizers will be served. Sign up at go.illinois.edu/FallHarvestHort or call the Illinois Extension office at 309-756-9978 in Milan, or 309-513-3100 in Viola.