The annual 5th-grade Conservation Day on October 2 took place at the McDonough County 4-H Fairgrounds, where more than 200 students from area schools explored the natural world through interactive, expert-led sessions. Seven classes from Edison Middle School, two from West Prairie Community Unit School District 103, and one from St.
Paul Catholic School attended the event.
Originally planned for Argyle Lake State Park, the program moved to the 4‑H Center because of wet, muddy conditions—but the learning and excitement were as strong as ever.
Students rotated through engaging stations led by partners from across the region, cheering, clapping, and even squealing when a huge snake was brought out. From close-up views of Illinois aquatic life to insights on forestry, wildlife, and conservation practices, students learned about and connected with the ecosystem around them.
Community Partners Make It Possible
Collaboration is key to providing such a rich, hands-on experience for these students. “We are incredibly grateful to all our partners for the engaging sessions they led.
The students were excited, curious, and truly enjoyed hearing about the natural world,” said organizers from the University of Illinois Extension. Partners included Ag in the Classroom, Argyle State Park, IDNR Forestry, McDonough County Health Department, IDNR Fisheries, Illinois River Biological Station, RSK Morphs LLC, Illinois Lyme Association, and University of Illinois Extension.
Conservation Day remains a cornerstone experience for youth in McDonough County, inspiring curiosity and stewardship of Illinois’ natural resources.
About Extension
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution.
Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.
A fifth grader gets an up close view of a catfish during Conservation Day.
