The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension Service will host three conferences focused on homesteading and sustainability throughout Arkansas in February, responding to increased interest in self-sufficiency among residents.
The events will cover topics including food preservation, vegetable gardening, composting, pasture management and greenhouse operations.
John D. Anderson, director of the Cooperative Extension Service, said the trainings connect research to practical applications.
“One of our goals within the Division of Agriculture is to improve the overall health of Arkansans, and increasing food security is a big part of the picture,” Anderson said. “Our extension agents work in every county of the state, teaching Arkansans how to grow, preserve and prepare food, manage resources, increase self-sufficiency, and ultimately become more food secure.”
The Hands-on Homesteading event will take place Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fulton County Fairgrounds in Salem. The cost is $10 and includes lunch. Registration is available online through Feb. 11.
Anna Barnett, Fulton County extension agriculture agent, said this is the county’s first large-scale homesteading event.
“Homesteading and sustainability have become increasingly popular topics in our community,” Barnett said. “We’ve seen a noticeable rise in people asking for resources on gardening, food preservation, backyard livestock and self-sufficiency.”
The Arkansas Vegetable Growers Conference will be held Feb. 19-20 at the Cooperative Extension Service state office in Little Rock. The event includes sessions on pest control, food safety, soil health and a drip irrigation demonstration. Cost is $40 before Feb. 10 and $50 thereafter. Registration is available online or in person.
The Southwest Arkansas Homesteading Conference will take place Feb. 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Arkansas Cossatot Community College Nashville Campus. The cost is $30, with a Kids Camp available for ages 5-19 for an additional $25. Registration closes Feb. 15.
Samantha Horn, Howard County extension staff chair, said interest in homesteading has grown since the COVID pandemic.
“I think people want to have the freedom to make sure they are prepared to be self-sustainable,” Horn said.
For more information about extension programs, contact a local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit uaex.uada.edu.
