SARATOGA CO., N.Y. — CCE Saratoga is launching another Homesteading Series. With the resurgence of a desire for a more self-sufficient lifestyle, the organization continues to offer valuable resources to help individuals do just that. A section on their website is wholly devoted to providing online information regarding subjects like Food Preservation & Preparation, Hunting & Gathering, Livestock & Animal Husbandry, and Planting & Growing. The Spring 2022 Homesteading Series consists of 3 separate classes and launches on March 31st ; class costs range between $10-$15 or $30 for the complete series.
Introduction to Canning Food at Home (with Diane Whitten) $15
Thursday, March 31, 6:00-8:00 pm
In-person at CCE Saratoga County, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa
Remote via Zoom (after registration the Zoom link will be sent)
Food preservation goes hand-in-hand with gardening for self-sufficiency. Canned foods that have been processed safely will remain safe for years. In this workshop, you’ll learn about boiling water canning, steam canning, and pressure canning. A demonstration of making jam will show some of the essential steps to successful canning.
Planning a Better Vegetable Garden (with Rebecca Devaney) $10
Thursday, April 14th
6:00 to 7:00 pm via Zoom
Kick this year’s vegetable garden up a notch by learning how to apply organic methods to grow happier, healthier veggies. We will discuss creating a plant family rotation plan, incorporating cover crops and companion plantings, and building a stronger soil foundation.
Homesteader Fencing 101 (with Nicolina Foti) $10
“Good Fences make for good neighbors. They make for better livestock!”
Wednesday, April 20th at 6:30 pm -7:30pm
In-person at the 4-H training center 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa
Fences are the patchwork of any farm or homestead, and choosing the right material for the job can make all the difference between a good experience with livestock or not. The art of a good fence comes down to the material, tools, and how to use them. While it takes time to perfect, this class will address the basics so you can choose the best fence and tools to keep your livestock in or out!
Call our office at 518-885-8995 to sign up/payment for these workshops or with any questions you may have.
–Cornell Cooperative Extension Saratoga County
