Series will explore homesteading

From garden planning to food preservation, the Southwind Extension District is offering a free fall series on homesteading and small-scale farming.

By

Around Town

September 8, 2025 - 2:41 PM

Photo by PIXABAY

FORT SCOTT — The Southwind Extension District invites the public to attend “Back to the Land: Traditions & Innovations in Small-Scale Farming,” a free educational series designed for anyone interested in homesteading or small-scale agriculture.

The program begins Wednesday, Oct. 1, and continues weekly through Dec. 10, at the Fort Scott Community College Ag Building, with one special session at the Bourbon County Fairgrounds on Dec. 10.

This hands-on series, led by Southwind Extension District agents and Kansas State University specialists, will explore practical topics to help participants build knowledge and confidence in self-reliant living, farming, and food production.

Session topics include:

• Oct. 1 – Plot Perfect: Garden Planning for Abundant Harvests

• Oct. 8 – Pests, Predators, and Protection

• Oct. 15 – Backyard to Barnyard: Small Farm Poultry Essentials

• Oct. 29 – Deep Roots: Soil and Forage Strategies for Resilient Farms

• Nov. 5 – Homestead Herds: Practical Livestock for Everyday Farmers

• Nov. 12 – Pantry Power: Food Preservation for Self-Reliant Living

• Dec.10 – Harvest and Butcher: A Whitetail Processing Program (Bourbon County Fairgrounds)

All sessions begin at 6 p.m. and are free to attend.

“This series is designed for anyone from beginners to those needing a refresher on certain topics,” said Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent. “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.”

To register or RSVP for meal count, call 620-223-3720.

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