U of I Extension offers 13-week course to help small-acreage landowners conserve resources, protect water quality

From press release

University of Illinois Extension—Winnebago County will present “Illinois Living on the Land: Stewardship for Small Acreages” from 3 to 6 p.m., Wednesdays, Aug. 25-Nov. 17.

Living on the Land is a 13-week course designed to help small-acreage landowners manage their land and become good stewards of their property and the environment by conserving natural resources and protecting water quality. Living on the Land will also help participants inventory their resources, explore potential income opportunities, and develop realistic goals to determine the best use for their acreage.

The course includes sessions on soils, wells and septic systems, local laws and regulations, water quality, streams and ponds, lawn management, pastures and managed grazing systems, animal husbandry, wildlife conservation and concerns, marketing and economics, sustainability and much more.

All classes will be in the Cookhouse at Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Centre and Children’s Farm, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford. Cost is $250 per person for Winnebago County residents and $60 for a spouse or partner (sharing curriculum); and $300 per person for non-Winnebago County residents and $75 for a spouse or partner (sharing curriculum).

Pre-registration is required by Aug. 11.

For more information, call Jackie de Batista at the U of I Extension-Winnebago County at (815) 986-4357 or visit www.extension.illinois.edu/winnebago.