COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri Extension specialists and local experts will give ways to make use of backyards and small acreages April 27 at the third annual Mid-MO Expo at Battle High School in Columbia.
The daylong event covers a variety of topics for the beginning to advanced gardener. Specialists will tell how to raise food, including poultry, honey, vegetables and fruit, and how to market it for sale.
The event offers numerous 45-minute sessions that will help landowners get more out of their backyards, says MU Extension agricultural engineering specialist Kent Shannon, who will give an overview of how small-property owners can use drones in their operations.
Beekeeper and MU Master Gardener John Williams gives several sessions to help those wanting to get into beekeeping. Terry Woods, an MU research specialist, shares ways to manage monarch butterflies and bees.
MU Extension entomologist Kevin Rice gives updates for the homeowner on insects. MU Extension agronomist Todd Lorenz tells how to start a garden. He also will talk about how cover crops can benefit gardens. MU Extension horticulturists Jim Quinn and Cory Creed tell how to grow fruits and hops. MU’s longtime state horticulturist David Trinklein gives a double session on tomato growing.
Retired MU Extension poultry specialist Jess Lyons gives a talk on “Backyard Chicken Production.” Shannon says local Master Gardeners and extension council members also offer sessions that attendees will find useful.
Representatives from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Greenbelt Land Trust of Mid-Missouri, and the Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District will offer insights into water and erosion issues. Jeff Zimmershied of The Lawn Company gives tips for organic lawn care.
For more information or to register, go to extension.missouri.edu/boone or call 573-445-9792. The event runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Battle High School is at 7575 E. St. Charles Road, Columbia.
— Linda Geist, University of Missouri Extension
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