By Andi Anderson
Illinois Extension is expanding its Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy program by adding more educators to serve communities across northern Illinois.
The initiative aims to provide research-based education that helps people make informed decisions about environmental conservation, sustainability, and natural resource management.
The expansion includes several experienced educators who will work with communities in both urban and rural areas. Their shared goal is to increase environmental awareness, encourage community involvement, and support long-term environmental health.
Illinois Extension Assistant Dean of Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy, Shibu Kar, highlighted the importance of this growth. He said, “We are adding skilled and collaborative Extension educators to meet growing needs in energy and the environment. They immerse themselves in the communities they serve to ensure their areas of expertise complement their local partners’ contributions so everyone can make positive change together.”
In Cook County, Extension Educator Abbey Matre is leading programs focused on urban environmental education. She oversees the Master Naturalists training program and works to connect residents with conservation opportunities. Matre is also promoting awareness about water conservation and the importance of local natural resources.
“I’m excited to help people discover that you don’t have to travel far to connect with nature,” Matre said. She also noted, “One area I’m especially excited about is water conservation. I’m creating educational programs that help Cook County residents save water at home while learning more about the Great Lakes and the role they play in supplying our drinking water.”
Extension Educator Molly Johnson serves Carroll, Lee, and Whiteside counties. Her work focuses on watershed stewardship, pollinator education, volunteer development, and youth engagement. Johnson hopes to expand environmental learning opportunities through schools and community programs.
She said, “The Lower Rock River Watershed has been identified as a priority by Extension’s Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. We can implement programming to protect the areas around our rivers that are so important for water quality and wildlife.”
Emily Hansen, formerly an agriculture educator, now delivers natural resource programs in several north-central Illinois counties. Her educational efforts include topics such as soil health, water quality, habitat conservation, sustainable land management, and the well-known Mazon Creek fossils.
Hansen shared, “I enjoy helping people discover the wildlife, plants, and natural areas that make our region unique.” She added, “By bringing together agricultural and ecological perspectives, I hope to help communities find solutions that support both productive landscapes and healthy natural systems.”
Jamie Viebach will continue serving communities while expanding environmental and sustainability education. Her priorities include native plant promotion, invasive species awareness, recycling education, water conservation, and the Climate Stewards program.
Viebach stated, “From early in my career working as an environmental educator to my current obsession with native plants, local flora and fauna have always fascinated me.” She also said, “I really want to lean into native plants, supporting both our local land and the people who work it.”
Through these expanded efforts, Illinois Extension continues to provide valuable environmental education and volunteer training programs. By focusing on local needs and encouraging community participation, the organization is helping build healthier ecosystems, stronger communities, and a more sustainable future across Illinois.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-lisegagne
Categories: Illinois, Education