Building Life Skills through the Livestock Project

Spring and summer are a very busy time of year for 4-H’ers active in livestock projects. From raising baby animals, to feeding, cleaning, preparing for and attending shows, there is never a shortage of things to keep youth busy!

There are many benefits to raising and showing livestock through the 4-H program, many which carry through adulthood. 

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July 2023 Financial Check In

Here's your monthly roundup of tips for financial well-being:

• This month, try a spontaneous activity. It does not have to be expensive.



• Start setting aside money for holiday spending now. Your future self will thank you.

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July 15 is National Give Something Away Day

Imagine if you could clean up your house and get rid of clutter, show someone that you care, gift small things to strangers, or in general improve the world. This day exists on July 15.

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Food Safety in the Summer

Grilling season is upon us--a favorite summertime activity. It's a great way to bring people together and simply prepare versatile foods.

The risk of food borne illness actually increases during summer months because the hot and humid days of summer provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow quickly. Keep your food and guests safe during cookouts by remembering the four steps to food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

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Sunset Garden Update

As of the June 13 workday session, the garden has produced more than 630 pounds of food donated throughout Johnson County.

Volunteer in the garden at our weekly workdays, each Tuesday from 9 to 11 am. No gardening experience is required.

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July Gardening Notes

• Harvest potatoes and onions as tops die back
• Control weeds to preserve water and nutrients
• Fertilize vegetables to encourage plant development
• Watch foliar disease development on lower tomato leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary
• Prepare for fall gardening. Plant potatoes, broccoli, and other fall crops

For a complete list of garden tasks, check out the July Gardening Calendar.

Troubleshooting Tomato Issues

Have you had tomato problems in the past? While popular to grow, tomatoes come with several common concerns. We rounded up solutions and simple growing tips.

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Meet the Beetles!

Japanese beetles have made their annual appearance. They are ravenous feeders and can severely damage plants.

Learn more about their life cycle and control methods.

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Hardy Hibiscus add a Splash of Summer Color

These beauties add a tropical feel to your garden, with the added benefit of returning every summer.

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Another kind of wild cat...

What are the odds of seeing a bobcat in Johnson County? It may be higher than you think. 

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Water Fun for kids this July

Our local Junior Extension Master Naturalist series provides youth in grades 3-5 opportunities to learn more about water, our most precious natural resource. Meeting dates are July 12, July 19, and July 22.

Register for July

Why Do We Volunteer?

There are many reasons why people engage in volunteerism: To make a difference, get experience, and to have fun. Learn more about the motivations for volunteering and the impact on healthy organizations. 

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Public health starts with you!

In partnership with Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (DHE), we encourage you to participate in this year’s 2023 Community Health Assessment. The survey will take 15-20 minutes.

Community responses assure that Johnson County's health improvement planning process is rooted in local priorities.

Tickets available for our Signature Event!

Saturday, August 26

5 - 8 PM

Arts and Heritage Center

Join us for our annual fundraiser-- an evening out with live and silent auction, delicious food and live music. All proceeds benefit the Johnson County Extension Education Foundation, which provides $20,000 in grants each year.

Buy tickets