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antonlee - stock.adobe.com/1680476516The Corn Belt Windbreak Project is studying decades-old windbreak trees and shrubs to measure their economic and environmental value. Experts say farmers have been removing them to gain acreage, but that costs them money. Researchers at the University of Illinois will work with farmers to evaluate windbreak impacts on yields, soil, and water quality, and develop strategies to help farmers use them profitably now and in the future -
JuliaDorian - stock.adobe.com/860890260Despite an overall decline in homelessness in Illinois, the number of infants and toddlers who are unhoused is rising, with experts noting the figures likely undercount families living in “hidden homelessness” situations. Their advocates say rural barriers, stigma, and limited shelter access compound the issue. They stress that expanded early childhood education and comprehensive wraparound services are critical to addressing both housing instability and its lasting impacts on young children.
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Missouri child-care providers are beginning to receive delayed federal subsidy payments after the state met new documentation requirements tied to federal funding. Children's advocates say the disruption highlights Missouri’s heavy reliance on federal dollars – renewing calls for more state funding for child care. -
The Work College Consortium is a rare group of just nine colleges nationwide where every full-time student works as part of earning a degree. At Missouri’s College of the Ozarks, that model is helping students graduate debt-free while gaining real-world experience, strong work habits and career-ready skills. -
As Missouri weighs large-scale solar, a debate is on between clean energy advocates and those warning that retiring fossil fuel plants too quickly could strain the power grid and raise blackout risks. -
Missouri’s minimum wage increase is now in effect as 2026 begins, a voter-approved change supporters say reflects rising living costs and workers' needs statewide. Workforce leaders say the change reflects rising living costs and could help retain workers, reduce reliance on public assistance, and strengthen the state’s labor force. -
Advocates of affordable healthcare warn that proposed Medicaid changes could result in coverage losses for thousands of Missourians, not because they’re ineligible, but due to paperwork and administrative hurdles. They point to past coverage losses and growing strain on rural hospitals as concerns mount ahead of a possible January government shutdown. -
On this episode of 'Going Public', we speak with Elizabeth Shelton, Executive Director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, about the organization's recent efforts to address rising needs for assistance. -
On this episode of 'Going Public', we speak with Elizabeth Shelton, Executive Director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, about the organization's recent efforts to address rising needs for assistance.
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Missouri farmers are feeling the strain after the U.S. Department of Agriculture abruptly pulled funding for the Heartland Regional Food Business Center, a program that helped small producers access markets and upgrade equipment. Local farm leaders warn the loss could stall growth and weaken Missouri’s local food networks. -
Missourians narrowly passed Amendment 2 in 2024, which legalized sports betting in the state. The constitutional amendment places Missouri among the nearly 40 states with legal sports gambling. -
Retail experts say Missouri shoppers may see less variety and subtle quality changes this Black Friday, as importers scale back due to tariffs and soft demand. Companies are quietly cutting costs by offering fewer toys and accessories and using cheaper materials.
