Well, 2015 is starting out as busy as 2014 ended! I have several more upcoming programs to tell you all about in Agriculture and Horticulture. As always, you can contact me at the Extension Office for more information about these exciting opportunities coming your way!
Cover Your Acres
Cover Your Acres 2015 is fast approaching. This two-day conference highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production on the High Plains. The conference is located in Oberlin at the Gateway Conference Center on Jan. 20-21 and I am planning on driving a van to the conference on Wednesday, Jan. 21. If you would like to go, call 620-793-1910 to reserve a spot in the van.  The same programs will be offered both days of the conference including subjects such as weed control in fallow fields, cover crop research, Management of Drought Tolerant Corn and Soil Microbiology. Early registration is due by Jan. 14. To view the conference flier, and for online registration, visit northwest.ksu.edu/p.aspx?tabid=82. For questions, call 785-462-6281.
Master Gardener
The Master Gardener program is an educational volunteer training program sponsored by K-State Research and Extension. Individuals are trained and certified in horticulture and related areas. These individuals, in turn, volunteer their expertise and services to help others through horticulture projects that benefit the community. Every year each region of the state has a host city where once a week, the people will learn about different subjects pertaining to horticulture. Some of the subjects include basic botany, landscape design, and fruits and vegetables. This year, the closest Master Gardener program will be held in Hays. The cost to attend is 90.00, and registrations are due by Jan. 16.
Farmers’ Market Vendor Workshop
Last, but not least, there will be a Farmer’s Market Vendor Workshop in Hays on January 30 from 9-3. The workshop, which will be held at the KSU Ag Research Center at 1232 240th Ave will cover many topics including, Getting Started, Food Safety Regulations, Marketing Tips, and Accepting non-cash payments. This workshop, geared toward current and perspective farmers’ market vendors is a great way to find out more information about marketing tips for your business, network with other vendors, and be able to get your questions answered. Cost is $200 before Jan. 15 and $25 after the date. For more information, visit FromthelandofKansas.com/FMConference. We hope to see you there!
Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for Barton County K-state Research and Extension. One can contact her by email at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.