Take small steps to improve, support the environment this winter

URBANA, ILLINOIS

   Widespread environmental issues like changing weather patterns and habitat loss can feel overwhelming, but small everyday choices make a difference. Explore sustainable maple syrup harvesting, tornado trends in the U.S., and what research says about how to support pollinators in three upcoming University of Illinois Extension webinars. 

   The Everyday Environment series explores natural resources topics and steps that anyone can take to help improve the environment. The live webinars are free, and recordings are available after the session on YouTube at www.youtube.com/UIextension.

   Maple Syrup: From History to Harvest, January 12 at 1 p.m. CST
Near the end of the winter, a natural phenomenon takes place in forests. Maple syrup season is a limited and precious time for those who love this natural sugary treat. Explore the history of maple syrup, learn how to tap your own trees, and discover best practices for DIY syrup. Sign up at go.illinois.edu/HowToSyrup.

   Tornado Trends, February 9 at 1 p.m. CST
In the Midwest, talk of tornadoes swirls frequently. Are tornadoes really turning up more often? Tune in to get the lowdown on tornadoes, twister myths and facts, and tornado trends. Sign up at go.illinois.edu/TornadoTrends.

   Tricky Pollinator Questions and Answers, March 9 at 1 p.m. CST
Are annual plants “junk food” for bees? Can I help pollinators by not mowing my lawn? How can I help pollinators if I don’t have a garden? Learn what the latest science has to say about some of your most challenging pollinator questions. Sign up at go.illinois.edu/PollinatorQandA.

   Learn more about the series at go.illinois.edu/EverydayEnvironment or subscribe for email updates at go.illinois.edu/EverydayEnvironmentUpdates.

   Anyone who needs an accommodation to participate should email Erin Garrett at emedvecz@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs. ∆