Alachua County Extension Calendar

For persons requiring special accommodations, please contact the respective Extension Agent at (352) 955-2402 (voice) or TDD/TYY (352) 955-2406 or at the Alachua County Extension Office, 2800 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville FL 32609. Please contact the Extension Office at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request.

For more information about the Alachua County Extension Service's programs, please contact the Alachua County Extension Office at 352/955-2402 (Voice), 352/955-2406 (TDD/TYY), 352/334-0122 (FAX) or e-mail at Alachua@ifas.ufl.edu.

Unless otherwise noted, programs are held at the Alachua County Extension Office.

May 2012

Home Food Preservation Workshop

May 1, 2012; 1:30 - 4:30 pm and repeated from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Dixie County Library, 16328 SE Highway 19, Cross City

Basic information on canning foods using the steam pressure canner or boiling-water canner. Directions and tips will also be included on making jams, jellies and pickles.

There is no cost, but registration is required at least three working days prior to workshop. Pre-register by calling 352-498-1219. Printed materials will be available for $3.00 per set. This program is offered by Dr. Brenda Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

A Personal Financial Management Program For Persons Filing Bankruptcy

May 3, 2012; 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Register by April 30

Learn the 4 basic concepts that will enable you to handle your financial resources responsibly and build a financially secure future. Develop Your Budget, Money Management Skills, Rights and Responsibilities, and Use Credit Responsibly will be taught. A fee of $10.00 cash (per court case number) is charted for the course to pay for educational materials and supplies. For registration and program information, please click here. This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

The Alachua County Open & 4-H Horse Show

May 5, 2012; 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Caterbury Equestrian Showplace Outdoor Arena
(9 miles west of I-75 on Newberry Road)

The Horse Show is open to all riders, ages 8 and up. Please see Showbill for divisions, fees and entry form.

For more information on this program, call 352-955-2402 or contact Matt Benge at mbenge@alachuacounty.us.

Controlling Exotic Invasive Plants

May 9, 2012; 6:00 - 7:30 pm

This class will show how to identify and control invasive plants using Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ techniques. This class will be conducted with Barton Wilder, Agricultural & Natural Resources Agent and a weed expert.

There is no cost for this program. Please register at least three working days prior to this program by calling 352-337-6209 (voicemail). For more information and registration form, please see brochure, or call 352-955-2402.

Alachua Home Grown Farm Tours

May 10, 2012; 8:00 am - 3:30 pm

Farm Stops Include: A local small farm; Holly Factory; Santa Fe River Ranch and Straughn Blueberry Farm. A box lunch will be served. Registration is limited to the first 40 paid registrants. Registration fee is $20.00. To reserve your seat, please pay in advance. For more information see flyer, or call 352-955-2402 or email alachua@ifas.ufl.edu.

Living on a Few Acres - Beef & Small Ruminant Production

May 17, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. "Beef and Small Ruminant Production" will provide information on different enterprises for beef cattle and what it takes to raise goats and sheep.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Master Gardener Plant Sale

May 19, 2012; 8:00 am - noon

The Alachua County Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale takes place on Saturday, May 19 from 8 a.m. to noon. A variety of herbs, annuals, perennials, natives, trees and more will be available. Master Gardener volunteers will be on site for advice on selection and care of your plants. Admission and parking is free.

This annual plant sale is a fundraiser for the Alachua County Master Gardener Volunteer Program. In 2011 these volunteers gave over 11,000 hours of service to the citizens of Alachua County and made contact with approximately 17,000 people seeking gardening advice. There are currently 11 school gardens throughout Alachua County elementary schools that are managed by these volunteers. School children are learning how to grow fruits and vegetables and about their nutritional benefits.

You don't want to miss these exceptional plants at excellent prices. Bring a wagon to tote your bargains in. Cash or checks only - please. Admission and parking is free. For further information, see flyer, or contact Wendy Wilber, Environmental Horticulture Agent, at 352-955-2402.

Worker Protection Standard: Train the Trainer Workshop

May 22, 2012; 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

Federal & State law requires that all agricultural workers be trained in the Worker Protection Standard by their 5th day on the job.  Attendees will receive: training in all major aspects of Worker Protection Standards, WPS Train the Trainer materials, handouts of educational materials, and a Florida Department of Agriculture Inspector will be present to answer questions on WPS enforcement & compliance.

Registration fee to attend this class is $5.00. 3 Private Applicator CEUs will be offered.  Pre-register by May 18, 2012, by calling 352-337-6209 (voicemail). This program will be conducted by Barton Wilder, Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent.

Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Workshop

May 23, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:15 pm

This class includes six hours of the required training for LCLM license applicants.  Participants needing recertification can attend the first four hours of class, but are encouraged to take the Advanced Landscape Training Workshop instead. The LCLM license exam will be given the same day as the class.  You must have all of your license application paperwork completed to sit for the exam.

Continuing Education Units will be offered in the following categories: 3 General Standard/Core, 3 Ornamental & Turf, 3 Private Applicator Ag, 3 Limited Lawn & Ornamental, 3 Limited Landscape Maintenance, 3 Commercial Lawn & Ornamental.

$30.00 per person for full day certification program. Fee includes application assistance, lunch and refreshments. For more information and registration form, see flyer. This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

ServSafe Food Safety Training for Managers

May 24, 2012; 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

This course meets the Florida Criteria for food managers of all establishments. Passing the exam will meet National Certification - good for five years. Pre-register with the University of Florida Food Safety and Quality Program at 352-392-8196 or visit the website at http://fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/foodsafety/. Class and exam are held at the Alachua County Extension Office. Fee required.

2012 Food Safety and Quality Program Brochure & Registration Form (pdf). This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

ID Card Holder Training

May 29, 2012; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

This training is ONLY required for identification cardholders spraying under a licensed pest control operator.  Each new cardholder must receive 4 hours classroom training, 6 months after card issued. Each existing cardholder must receive at least 2 hours of continuing training by the renewal date of the card.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. New Cardholders
9 to 10:40 a.m. Existing Cardholders

The registration fee is $5.00 (includes materials & refreshments).  This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Green Industries Best Management Practices

May 31, 2012; 8:30 am - 3:30 pm

This workshop is designed to provide training in Best Management Practices for anyone working in the lawn, landscape, pest control, or municipal grounds areas. This is a required training class for all commercial and institutional fertilizer applicators in Alachua County according to the Alachua County Fertilizer Standards and Management Practices Code.

A “Commercial Fertilizer Applicator” means any person who applies fertilizer on turf and/or landscape plants in Alachua County in exchange for money, goods, services or other valuable consideration.

An “Institutional Fertilizer Applicator” means any person, other than a non-commercial or commercial applicator (unless such definitions also apply under the circumstances), that applies fertilizer for the purpose of maintaining turf and/or landscape plants. Institutional applicators shall include, but shall not be limited to, owners and managers of public lands, schools, parks, religious institutions, utilities, industrial or business sites and any residential properties maintained in condominium and/or common ownership.

Best Management Practices are focused on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from fertilization or pesticide application.  In some areas, you need to be certified in the BMPs to be able to bid on jobs or have commercial customers.  It will be mandatory throughout the state in the near future. Stay a step ahead of the new requirements.

For pesticide license holders Continuing Education Units will be offered in the following categories: (2) CORE, (2) Ornamental & Turf, Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance.  
The registration fee is $25.00 (includes materials & lunch).  To register and for more information see flyer. This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Selling Processed Food, Eggs, Meat and Milk Products at the Farmers Market: Rules and Regulations

May 31, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This workshop will discuss the Florida Cottage Foods Legislation, and the rules and regulations for selling eggs, meat, cured meat, milk and milk products at farmers markets.
Class is free of charge.  

Please register at least three working days prior to these programs by calling 352-337-6209 (voicemail). This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

June 2012

Crafty Kids - 4-H Summer Day Camp

June 8, 2012; 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Ages 5-7 w/parent
Ages 8-18

Come join us for our annual afternoon of summer crafting! Round robin of 25-30 crafts will keep you hopping and give you some great items to come home with. Similar to the Holiday Crafts Workshop, but crafts will be more summer oriented. Will give you lots of ideas to craft all summer!! $25.00 registration fee includes supplies, snacks and lunch. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Space - 4-H Summer Day Camp

June 11-14, 2012; 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Ages 10-13

The Space Day Camp provides participants an introduction to the dynamics of aerospace and flight! Youth will participate in activities such as Pilot's Alphabet, Flight Science, Bottle Rocket Launch, Duct Tape Space Suits, and more. We will also be taking a trip to Kennedy Space Center! Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Registration fee is $35.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Shooting Sports - Shotgun - 4-H Summer Day Camp

June 11-15, 2012; 8:00 - 11:00 am
Gator Skeet and Trap Club
Ages 10-18

Learn proper gun safety, handling, and skeet shooting in a supervised environment. Both beginners and advanced shooters are welcome. Shotguns provided. Snacks provided. Registration fee is $110.00 or $159.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Shooting Sports - Archery & Air Rifle - 4-H Summer Day Camp

June 18-20, 2012; 8:00 -11:00 am
Gator Skeet and Trap Club
Ages 8-18

Learn proper air rifle and archery safety, handling and shooting in a supervised environment. All equipment is provided. Snacks provided. Registration fee is $40.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Nursery Best Management Practices Tour

June 19, 2012; 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Holly Factory Nursery
29010 NW County Road 241, Alachua

This program has been designed to present information about nursery best management practices. The presentations and tour will allow the participants to learn and see the implementation of BMPs in a container nursery. Some of the topics covered will include irrigation management through cyclic irrigation, using denitrification walls for groundwater nutrient management, and management of surface runoff with berms, swales, and vegetative buffers.

Registration fee is $20.00 per person, includes materials and dinner. Flyer includes the program schedule, registration form and map to the event location. Please pre-register by June 15 by calling 352-337-6209 or mail completed registration form to the Extension Office. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Farm to Fork - 4-H Summer Day Camp

June 20-22, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Ages 9-13

Come and taste Alachua County agriculture! This new day camp provides participants the opportunity to tour beef cattle operations, horse farms, nurseries and green houses. Also, youth will learn about the nutrition value of these foods. Alachua County has about 200,000 acres in agricultural production. Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Snacks provided. Registration fee is $30.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Living on a Few Acres - Wildlife Habitat

June 21, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Wildlife Habitat" class, learn how to provide food, water, cover and a place to raise their young. Become a NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Before You Tie The Knot

June 25 & 26, 2012; 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Register by June 21, 2012

This is a premarital class that provides a certificate worth $32.50 reduction of the fee for a marriage license obtained in Alachua County. The program consists of two workshops, each lasting 2 hours. Participants must attend both sessions to receive a certificate of completion.

These Extension workshops fulfill the requirements of Florida Statute 741, Marriage Preparation and Preservation Act, and have been approved by the Circuit Court of Alachua County.

Registration is due no later than one week prior to class. A minimum of three couples must be registered or class will be cancelled. Please call (352)337-6209 (voicemail) to register. This class is offered by Brenda Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

A Personal Financial Management Program For Persons Filing Bankruptcy

June 26, 2012; 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Register by June 30

Learn the 4 basic concepts that will enable you to handle your financial resources responsibly and build a financially secure future. Develop Your Budget, Money Management Skills, Rights and Responsibilities, and Use Credit Responsibly will be taught. A fee of $10.00 cash (per court case number) is charted for the course to pay for educational materials and supplies. For registration and program information, please click here. This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

July 2012

Jewelry - 4-H Summer Day Camp

July 9, 2012; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Ages 10-18

Learn the basics of jewelry making. Perfect wire wrapping to make earrings, learn some of the hottest macramé techniques and come home with at least three projects finished. You’ll also come home with your own set of tools to make more at home. All project materials provided as well as snacks and drinks. Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Limited space. Registration fee is $25.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Wild About Florida - 4-H Summer Day Camp

July 10-13, 2012; 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Ages 8-12

Participants will gain an insight in the diversity and complexity of the Florida environment! This day camp will cover four main areas: Florida wildlife, agriculture, natural resources, and horticulture. Snacks provided. Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Registration fee is $40.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Fashion Revue - 4-H Summer Day Camp

July 17-19, 2012; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Ages 8-18

Learn to personalize your style by applying embellishment techniques to premade clothing and repurposing old items into something new. You will learn embroidery techniques and mbellishing, how to repurpose old clothing into something new and fresh and accessorizing tricks to make the old feel new. Class will include hand sewing/embroidery, simple machine sewing and lots of crafting. We will repurpose t-shirts and blue jeans and glam up some fun projects. All project materials provided as well as snacks and drinks. Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Limited space. Registration fee is $40.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Living on a Few Acres - Fruits and Nuts

July 19, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. "Fruits and Nuts" will provide information on production of high value alternative fruit and nut crops for local and niche markets.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

4-H Camp

July 23 - 27, 2012
Camp Cherry Lake
Ages 8-12

Camp will be held from July 23-27 at Camp Cherry Lake, Madison, Florida. Campers age 8 to 12 are invited to attend (do not have to be a 4-H member). Daily activities include swimming, canoeing, games, nature study, recreation and fishing. Evening activities include cabin skits, crafts, leisure sports, dancing, cabin competitions and camp fires. Campers will live in rustic
cabins divided into boys and girls sections overlooking beautiful Cherry Lake. Camp will be supervised by Alachua, Bradford, and Duval County 4-H faculty and UF/IFAS 4-H camp staff. Registration fee of $190.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

2012 Food Safety & Quality Program

July 24, 2012; 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

This course meets the Florida Criteria for food managers of all establishments. Passing the exam will meet National Certification - good for five years. Pre-register with the University of Florida Food Safety and Quality Program at 352-392-8196 or visit the website at http://fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/foodsafety/. Class and exam are held at the Alachua County Extension Office. Fee required.

2012 Food Safety and Quality Program Brochure & Registration Form (pdf). This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

August 2012

Dairy - 4-H Day Camp

August 1-3, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Archer, FL
Ages 10-15

Ever wonder where milk comes from? Have you ever made your own cheese? In this day camp you will taste and make your own cheese, learn the basics about dairy, and tour a dairy facility and learn how they process cheese! Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes. Participants much bring a bagged lunch. Registration fee is $30.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

All About Animals - 4-H Day Camp

August 7-10, 2012; 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Ages 6-8

The All About Animals Day Camp is an opportunity for children to learn about animal science and environmental education in a unique way! The camp is divided into three parts: Farm animals, Florida animals, and animals from around the world. Snacks provided. Participants must bring a bagged lunch. Registration fee is $45.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Government Day - 4-H Day Camp

August 14, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Columbia County, Florida
Ages 11-13

Participants will be taken through the legislative process for a day. Come learn how a issue becomes a bill, rules and guidelines for debating, and the checks and balances system. This is a regional day camp held in Lake City. We will be joined by participants in Bradford, Baker, and Columbia Counties. Participants must find their own transportation. Lunch provided. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Creative Journaling

August 14-16, 2012; 1:00-4:00 pm
Ages 9-13

Journaling is a fun method for children to learn to express themselves. It can take the form of writing, collages, sketches, pictures, clippings, photos, painting, etc. Its purpose is to help youth gain a more positive perspective on their lives by developing an awareness of events, memories and feelings. And it is a fun way to collect ideas that will be cherished in later years. And did we mention that it is fun?!! Participants will receive a journal and have materials available to use their creative skills. Snacks provided. Registration Fee is $15.00. See flyer and registration form for more information. This program is offered by Matt Benge, 4-H Agent.

Living on a Few Acres - Optimize Pasture and Grazing Management

August 16, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Optimize Pasture and Grazing Management" class, learn how to manage your pasture or establish a new pasture.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

A Personal Financial Management Program For Persons Filing Bankruptcy

August 22, 2012; 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Register by August 15

Learn the 4 basic concepts that will enable you to handle your financial resources responsibly and build a financially secure future. Develop Your Budget, Money Management Skills, Rights and Responsibilities, and Use Credit Responsibly will be taught. A fee of $10.00 cash (per court case number) is charted for the course to pay for educational materials and supplies. For registration and program information, please click here. This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Workshop

August 23, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:15 pm

$30.00 per person for full day certification program. Fee includes application assistance, lunch and refreshments. For more information and registration form, see flyer. This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

September 2012

2012 Food Safety & Quality Program

September 5, 2012; 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

This course meets the Florida Criteria for food managers of all establishments. Passing the exam will meet National Certification - good for five years. Pre-register with the University of Florida Food Safety and Quality Program at 352-392-8196 or visit the website at http://fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/foodsafety/. Class and exam are held at the Alachua County Extension Office. Fee required.

2012 Food Safety and Quality Program Brochure & Registration Form (pdf). This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

Before You Tie The Knot

September 10 & 17, 2012; 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Register by September 6

This is a premarital class that provides a certificate worth $32.50 reduction of the fee for a marriage license obtained in Alachua County. The program consists of two workshops, each lasting 2 hours. Participants must attend both sessions to receive a certificate of completion.

These Extension workshops fulfill the requirements of Florida Statute 741, Marriage Preparation and Preservation Act, and have been approved by the Circuit Court of Alachua County.

Registration is due no later than one week prior to class. A minimum of three couples must be registered or class will be cancelled. Please call (352)337-6209 (voicemail) to register. This class is offered by Brenda Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

Living on a Few Acres - Organic Production

September 20, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Organic Production" class, learn the standards for organic production.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

October 2012

Living on a Few Acres - Equine Management

October 18, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Equine Management" class, learn the basics of nutrition and health including vaccination, de-worming, and dental care.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Before You Tie The Knot

October 29 & 30, 2012; 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Register by October 25, 2012

This is a premarital class that provides a certificate worth $32.50 reduction of the fee for a marriage license obtained in Alachua County. The program consists of two workshops, each lasting 2 hours. Participants must attend both sessions to receive a certificate of completion.

These Extension workshops fulfill the requirements of Florida Statute 741, Marriage Preparation and Preservation Act, and have been approved by the Circuit Court of Alachua County.

Registration is due no later than one week prior to class. A minimum of three couples must be registered or class will be cancelled. Please call (352)337-6209 (voicemail) to register. This class is offered by Brenda Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

November 2012

2012 Food Safety & Quality Program

November 7, 2012; 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

This course meets the Florida Criteria for food managers of all establishments. Passing the exam will meet National Certification - good for five years. Pre-register with the University of Florida Food Safety and Quality Program at 352-392-8196 or visit the website at http://fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/foodsafety/. Class and exam are held at the Alachua County Extension Office. Fee required.

2012 Food Safety and Quality Program Brochure & Registration Form (pdf). This program is offered by Dr. Brenda C. Williams, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent.

Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Workshop

November 15, 2012; 9:00 am - 3:15 pm

$30.00 per person for full day certification program. Fee includes application assistance, lunch and refreshments. For more information and registration form, see flyer. This workshop is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

Living on a Few Acres - Backyard Flock: Growing Poultry

November 15, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Backyard Flock: Growing Poultry" class, receive information on breeds, nutrition, health, and housing.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

December 2012

Living on a Few Acres - Marketing & Value Added Products

December 20, 2012; 6:00 - 8:00 pm

This is a new 12 part series program for 2012 and will be held on the third Thursday of each month. In the "Marketing and Value Added Products" class, learn how to use Florida MarketMaker to market your product and ways to take advantage of value adding opportunities.

This monthly program is designed as an introduction to basic production techniques on a wide variety of topics from pasture management and livestock production to growing vegetables and alternative enterprises. As you consider your options for your farm, learn what is involved and get the resources available to help you be successful.

The "Living on a Few Acres" program is designed to provide information to individuals interested in beginning or improving a small scale agricultural operation. Whether you are producing food for your family or looking to receive income from your property, these series of classes has something to offer.

$10.00 for individual and $15.00 for couples for entire series (12 classes). Notebook and materials provided. For class dates and more information, see program flyer. Enrollment deadline is January 16th. Call 352-955-2402 for more information. This program is offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent.

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