Southern Alberta farmers and producers can learn new ideas as part of two upcoming free workshops hosted by the Lethbridge County Agriculture Extension Program.
The first session, the ‘Growing Opportunities Workshop’, is set for Wednesday, March 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre. The event is free and attendees will receive a lunch.
Officials said the workshop will focus on exploring risk mitigation and management over time. Sessions will include:
- The Canadian Prairie Prescribed Fire Exchange Program;
- Emergency response plans and why producers should complete them;
- The AgSafe Program, risk management and 10 myths of farm safety;
- The importance of succession planning for farms.
APRIL WORKSHOP
A second event this spring, the annual ‘Shelterbelts and Resilient Landscapes Workshop’, is set for Wednesday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Diamond City Community Hall. Like its predecessor, this workshop is free and will include lunch.
Officials explained that shelterbelts are rows of trees and shrubs planted to protect land, reduce soil erosion, provide habitat for wildlife and other vegetation, and help create healthier, more resilient landscapes.
The County noted that this workshop will be helpful for those living on farmsteads, as well as acreages and in grouped country residential subdivisions.
It will offer information on practical ways to manage shelterbelts, with sessions including:
- Disease and pests;
- Information on the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society of Alberta program;
- Long-term maintenance of shelterbelts.
The workshop will also include demonstrations on planning a shelterbelt, proper pruning techniques, and tree planting. Attendees will have access to free bare root trees.
“These workshops are a great opportunity for producers to learn practical strategies they can apply on their operations right away,” said Matthew Wells, Rural Extension Specialist with Lethbridge County.
“Whether you’re looking at farm safety, emergency planning, succession, or building a stronger shelterbelt, these sessions are designed to give you useful information and connect you with helpful resources.”
Those interested in attending can register through the Lethbridge County website or by calling 403-328-5525.
