MU Extension in St. Francois County

06/05/2026

Ready to make this your most active summer yet?

Join the 100 Miles, 100 Days Challenge and move your way to 100 miles between June 16 and Sept. 24. Walk, run, bike or dance, every mile counts.

Track your progress, climb the leaderboard and help your county compete for bragging rights.

This free, virtual program is open to all ages and abilities, making it easy to get moving and stay motivated.

Register today and get ready to move.
https://brnw.ch/21x37A7

06/04/2026

For some Missouri seniors, this program is one of the few times each year they can access fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Through a partnership between MU Extension and the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program supports healthy aging, improves nutrition and strengthens local food systems.

Since 2020, MU Extension in the Urban West region has partnered with 40 Kansas City-area organizations to distribute more than $155,000 in benefits to eligible seniors. The program supports local farmers and helps improve the health and well-being of Missourians.

Get details about the program and learn how to apply: https://brnw.ch/21x363g

06/03/2026

Frequent rain and cooler-than-normal temperatures this spring are creating ideal conditions for tar spot in Missouri cornfields.

The disease has shown up in June in recent years and is expected again in 2026, so early scouting and continued monitoring are key.

Tar spot, caused by a fungus that survives in crop residue, appears as small, raised black spots on leaves and can spread quickly under favorable conditions. While it can impact yield, MU Extension plant pathologists say there’s no need to panic.

Finding the disease in June doesn't automatically mean a fungicide application is needed. Continue monitoring how quickly it spreads, where symptoms are appearing in the canopy, disease severity and upcoming weather conditions before making management decisions.

Get additional information: https://brnw.ch/21x33VL

06/02/2026

Missouri was the nation’s 18th-largest state in 2025, with a population of 6.27 million. From 2024 to 2025 the state gained more than 27,000 residents, an annual growth rate of 0.4%.

Population change reflects natural change (births minus deaths) and migration. From 2020 to 2025 Missouri’s population rose by about 115,000, or 1.9%. During that period the state experienced a natural decrease—deaths outnumbered births by more than 12,000—but that loss was more than offset by migration: roughly 70,000 international migrants and 57,000 domestic migrants moved to Missouri.

Read the full Missouri Economy Indicators brief. Link in the comments.

06/01/2026

Pollinators are disappearing and it impacts ecosystems and food supplies. Watch to learn what’s driving the decline and simple actions you can take to help.

If you’re going to be in Columbia area on June 13, make plans to attend the 9th Annual Butterfly Festival at Jefferson Farm and Garden to explore pollinators up close and discover ways to make a difference.

Read about how to protect the pollinator population: https://brnw.ch/21x30bZ

05/29/2026

Looking for practical ways to strengthen your family relationships and reduce everyday stress?

Join the Building Strong Families virtual course and gain tools you can use right away. This interactive, six-session series helps parents build on their strengths while learning effective communication, stress management and positive parenting strategies.

Sessions occur on Thursdays, June 4 through July 9 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Register today: https://brnw.ch/21x2WfY

05/28/2026

Raw or cooked… which tomato packs more nutrition?

As we head into peak tomato season, the answer might surprise you. Watch to learn how to get the most out of every bite this summer.

Learn more about this fruit/vegetable: https://brnw.ch/21x2UBv

05/27/2026

Looking for a simple way to bring more whole grains and vegetables into your meals?

Try this Nutty Couscous with Raisins and Vegetables recipe that delivers real value with a quick, flavorful combination of ingredients.

05/27/2026

TODAY! You can still register: https://pears.io/events/mu/4096/

🐄🌾 Tomorrow. Noon CST. 🌾🐄

Grab your lunch.And your water.And join us online.

We’re coming to you live from the barn as Judith de Vor, a fifth‑generation dairy farmer from the Netherlands, shares a global perspective on sustainability, stewardship, and women leading agriculture—celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

📅 Tomorrow
⏰ Noon CST
🔗pears.io/events/mu/4096

Pull up a chair (or the feed bunk) and be part of the conversation.

Visit the Pearls of Production Store
https://forms.gle/DgtGopZxLNSkn4Fv9
Because investing in yourself—and the next generation—is always worth it. 🌟

💛

05/26/2026

Interested in building stronger connections and improving your well-being?

Through the ShowMe Connection project, eligible participants can take free MU Extension classes focused on:
• Healthy relationships
• Physical activity
• Mental health awareness

If you live in a rural area, are 18+ and can complete a short training, you may qualify! Eligibility required. Spots are limited.

Interested? Email Candace Rodman at [email protected] to express interest.

This work is supported by ShowMe Connection, project award no. 2025-46100-45377 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture