The Barton County Conservation District will host a hands-on drip irrigation workshop on Saturday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cheryl L. Reinert Memorial Community Garden, located at 2216 Stone Street, at the corner of 17th and Stone Street in Great Bend.

This free, half-day workshop is designed for home gardeners, community garden volunteers, and anyone interested in conserving water while growing healthier plants. Participants will learn how micro drip irrigation works, what components are needed, and how to size and assemble a system for vegetable beds, raised beds, or landscape borders.

“We’ll be working directly in the garden, so come dressed for outdoor activity,” Barton County Conservation District Manager Veronica Coons said. Attendees will help put together the vital head assembly, lay out tubing, connect emitters, and learn how to prevent backflow—giving everyone the confidence to set up a system at home. Staff will also demonstrate how drip irrigation improves soil health by reducing evaporation, minimizing foliar disease, and delivering water directly to the root zone.

The garden is just getting started this season, and the introduction of micro-drip irrigation will give a vital jump start to the vegetable and flower beds, Coons remarked. As the summer unfolds, these beds will evolve and flourish, benefiting from the efficient, targeted watering that drip irrigation provides to support healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Printed guides will be available for participants to take home, including diagrams of system components and tips for long term maintenance.

The Cheryl L. Reinert Memorial Community Garden is a collaborative project supported by local partners and volunteers, and this workshop is part of the district’s ongoing effort to promote practical, water wise gardening across Barton County.

The workshop is open to the public, and all skill levels are welcome. Participants are encouraged to dress for outdoor work.

For more information, contact the Barton County Conservation District office, 620-792-3002, ext. 4672.