Southwind Extension District Launches Free Homesteading Series
The Southwind Extension District is set to launch a complimentary educational series focusing on homesteading and small-scale farming, beginning on October 1, 2023. Named “Back to the Land: Traditions & Innovations in Small-Scale Farming,” the program aims to equip participants with essential skills for self-reliant living and food production. The series will take place at the Fort Scott Community College Ag Building and will continue weekly until December 10, 2023, featuring a special session at the Bourbon County Fairgrounds.
This hands-on initiative, led by agents from the Southwind Extension District alongside specialists from Kansas State University, will cover a diverse range of practical topics relevant to both novice and experienced individuals in the field of homesteading. Each session begins at 18:00 and is free of charge, making it accessible for anyone eager to enhance their knowledge in small-scale agriculture.
Program Schedule and Topics
The series will feature the following sessions:
– **October 1** – Plot Perfect: Garden Planning for Abundant Harvests
– **October 8** – Pests, Predators, and Protection
– **October 15** – Backyard to Barnyard: Small Farm Poultry Essentials
– **October 29** – Deep Roots: Soil and Forage Strategies for Resilient Farms
– **November 5** – Homestead Herds: Practical Livestock for Everyday Farmers
– **November 12** – Pantry Power: Food Preservation for Self-Reliant Living
– **December 10** – Harvest and Butcher: A Whitetail Processing Program (Bourbon County Fairgrounds)
Each session aims to provide participants with actionable skills they can implement immediately. According to Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent, “This series is designed for anyone from beginners to those needing a refresher on certain topics. Whether you want to grow more food, care for livestock, or preserve your harvest, you’ll walk away with practical skills you can put to use right away.”
Individuals interested in attending the series are encouraged to register or RSVP for meal counts by calling 620-223-3720. This initiative represents an important opportunity for community members to engage with sustainable practices and improve their self-sufficiency in food production.
