The University of Illinois Extension has recently appointed Emily Hansen as the new Commercial Agriculture Educator. Serving Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam counties, Hansen brings a strong background in soil health and sustainable practices from her farming roots and academic research. She has initiated various programs, aiming to enhance local agricultural practices and knowledge. She comes from a farming family, which has farmed in the Grundy County areas for five generations.
“I am excited to join the Extension team in Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam Counties,” said Hansen. “My first year on the job has been great and I look forward to bringing new and innovative programs to our community.”
Emily graduated with her master’s degree in biological sciences in the behavior, ecology, evolution, and systematics sequence from Illinois State University. During her time at ISU, Emily engaged in impactful research exploring the influence of cover crops on soil microbial communities. Her areas of expertise include soil health, plant-microbe interactions, cover crops, and sustainable production practices.