Back to Basics
Workshop Participants
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Pine River-Backus School, Pine River, MN
Full Day of Fun
Back to Basics is a full day adult (16+) education event where you can learn from presenters, visit and learn from vendors/exhibitors, shop for local goods, take advantage of networking opportunities, socialize with friends, and enter to win one of many door prizes! Can't join us for the whole day? No problem! We have Ala Carte registration for those who would like to attend for part of the day.
Participation Fees
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Vendor Area & Keynote: FREE
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Full Day Adult - $40 (includes 4 workshops + lunch OR 5 workshops)
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Full Day Senior (60+) or Student (16+) - $35 (includes 4 workshops + lunch OR 5 workshops)
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Ala Carte - $9/Workshop, $13/Lunch
Schedule
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Refer-A-Friend
Word of mouth continues to be the way most people hear about Back to Basics! Refer a friend or family member to the event who has never attended and get a chance to win one of two great prizes! One prize will be awarded to a referrer and one will be awarded to a referee. Just make sure that they put your name in the "referred by" box on registration, and you'll both be entered to win!
Workshops
Pre-registration for workshops has closed. Walk-on registration will be available on Saturday, February 15, starting at 8am in room 112. Workshop maximums are determined by the presenter and room capacity. We will not sell standing room in workshops and want to ensure every person who signs up will have a seat in order to provide a comfortable experience for both the participants and presenters. Have more questions? Check out the Back to Basics FAQs! The workshop listings below are constantly updated--check here for full classes! If you would like to receive a printed brochure (not updated), fill in this form.
Presenters with a + symbol are vendors/exhibitors. Presenters with a ⭐ symbol are B2B enthusiasts.
Session 1 - 10:20-11:20
1A. Cooking Ayurvedically - Treff Brock, Guiding Elements Yoga, LLC WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Participants will learn about some spices that are beneficial to the different constitutions (doshas) & will understand how to make ghee & kitchari (an Ayurvedic staple). This class is designed to help you understand different foods that can help with digestion & are easily made at home.
1B. Beyond Organic Tomatoes - Rachel Cobb, Brambling Rows Farm WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
For many, a homegrown tomato is the cornerstone of a good vegetable garden. But, especially in Minnesota, tomatoes can be divas - sensitive to cold & prone to disease. We'll talk about common pitfalls, how to start robust plants from seed, & a planting system integrated with cover crops that not only maximizes flavor & yield but can help "climate-proof" tomatoes no matter what the growing season brings. Learn how to support healthy plants without fungicides or pesticides & a secret trick to have ripe fruit one week earlier than your neighbors!
1C. Gentle Yoga + Breathwork - Bryana Cook, Boreal Bliss Yoga Retreats
Move through soothing, accessible yoga postures & connect with specific guided breathing exercises. Unwind & release tension at a comfortable pace. Explore slow, flowing movements to increase flexibility & mobility, with modifications to suit all levels. Each posture will be paired with intentional breathing exercises to help deepen the connection between mind, body, & breath. Perfect for all levels, this class is a peaceful way to restore balance & find calm. Please bring a yoga mat (storage available).
1D. Nurturing LOVE & the Spirit of Mindfulness - Amy Donnan Neppl, Language of the Heart, LLC + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
After a brief overview of the science behind mindfulness & visualization, this workshop will offer an opportunity to map out a feeling pattern in the body & focus on strategies to expand peaceful & loving feelings. Emotional patterns can become repetitive & ingrained. This workshop will focus on ways to magnify the best of our emotions.
1E. Most Recent Research & Legislation on the Health Effects of Plastics - Jane Dow, Beyond Plastics Greater Mankato Area +
Every year, the scientific community uncovers more problems with our reliance on plastics. This workshop will cover the most recent research on microplastics & chemical harm that comes from plastics. Review the legislation that has already passed & what is being introduced in 2025.
1F. Planting the Seeds of Inclusive Communities - Dawn Espe, The Sowing Room
Our rural communities look different than they did 20 years ago. Changing demographics, remote workers, & climate shifts are reshaping even our most sparsely populated spaces. Bridging differences & building connections are important to the future fabric of rural America. We will look at building human & social capital to create connected communities, breaking down barriers that hinder an individual’s ability to participate in their chosen community, & eliminating discrimination against populations that diverge from perceived cultural norms.
1G. Soil Health: The Key to Fixing the Problems of Our World - Jim Etzel, Earth is Our Home Environmental Services +
WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Learn the importance of minimal soil disturbance, mulching, plant diversity, & utilizing the weedy species to benefit the ecosystem. This can apply to gardens, landscapes, pastures, & forests. We will also cover natural fertilizers such as wood ash, fermented plant juice, & mycorrhizal inoculants.
1H. Making & Selling Safe Cottage Foods - Amy Johnston & Autumn Stoll, University of Minnesota Extension ⭐
Participants will learn about food safety controls they can use when making & selling their cottage foods products. Participants will get hands-on experience testing the pH & water activity of cottage foods products. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to identify & implement safe food handling practices in their business.
1I. Planning a Sustainable & Productive Garden - Laura Mendoza Romero, Great Roots, LLC + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
This workshop is perfect for new gardeners. We will talk about how to select the best location for your garden, the multiple benefits of composting, & efficient planting strategies to create a thriving, productive garden.
1J. Joyful Juicing - Jami Nelson, Just Juice
Participants will learn the health benefits of consuming raw, unpasteurized juices. They will learn how juicing can be used as a tool to transform health & well-being. Participants will sample freshly made juices & learn how different kinds of fruits & vegetables can be used for different desired health outcomes.
1K. Loons & Healthy Lakes - Maddi Nistler, National Loon Center + & Geoff Davidge, Whitefish Area Property Owners Association (WAPOA) +
The National Loon Center & WAPOA have created an education campaign called "Share Our Shoreline" to help residents & visitors of the lakes area understand how to protect Minnesota's loons & freshwater resources. Share Our Shoreline provides tools to learn how to responsibly recreate & landscape to keep lakes clean for loons. Recognize the importance of natural shorelines, water quality, & aquatic invasive species prevention in conserving Minnesota's loons.
1L. Getting Started with Bees - Gage Deskeere (Change in Presenter), Mann Lake Bee & Ag Supply ⭐
Why do people keep bees & how can it help the environment? Learn the basics of keeping honeybees, from preparing for your hive to caring for your bees, including what to feed them, how to water them, their basic health needs, & the essential equipment you’ll need for success.
1M. Carbon Credit Cash Now - Kent Scheer, Green Island Preserve
Carbon credit cash from rural forestland is available & should be a consideration for any small farmer’s or landowner’s income portfolio. This is an actual cash payment from your forest & even from rangeland, farmland & peatlands if you get informed & get going. Understanding carbon offsets is not hard but there are nuances…some you will like, some you may not. Learn the basics & resources to get started. We’ll also discuss re-engaging with the preciousness of nature & finding the spiritual reconnect that global consumerism drowns out.
Session 2 - 11:45-12:45
2A. Nature-Based Solutions & Climate Resiliency - Brennan Blue, Great River Greening
Get an overview of how nature-based climate solutions are utilized in land restoration & climate resiliency planning. This workshop will present a few recent project case studies, showcasing how nature-based solutions can provide layering ecological & public health benefits. Participants will then share in an exercise to design a set of nature-based interventions that can be implemented in a local setting (e.g. a home, school, or community site).
2B. Dehydrating Fruit, Vegetables, Herbs, Meat, & More! - Sheila Boldt, Boldt Pine Haven WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Share, listen, & watch as we explore the endless possibilities of dehydrating food in the oven or a dehydrator. We will prepare & start the dehydration of fruit leathers, beef jerky, & a 3rd surprise to sample! Please come prepared to share your favorite dehydrated food item or recipe, tricks or tips, or, if you're new to this, what you'd like to learn or dehydrate.
2C. Homesteader to Home Grower - Kathleen Connell
We've moved from a 40-acre homestead to a double lot in a small town. After four years at our new location, learn how the transition changed how we do things. How did a large yard become a garden & orchard? What did we have to do differently to still enable us to raise a lot of our own food? How did things like permaculture, regenerative gardening, & no-till practices play a part in a small town setting? What techniques did we use to maximize production?
2D. Solar 101 - Simon Eddy & John Ruvelson (Presenter Change), Wolf Track Energy +
Ever wondered what it takes to install a solar system at your home or business? The team at Wolf Track Energy is ready to answer all of your questions about harnessing the sun's rays for electricity. Learn how you can take advantage of grants & other incentives to make your renewable goals a reality.
2E. Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine - Starr Jarvis, Chinese Herbs & Acupuncture, LLC + Jasper Hernandez WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Learn simple approaches to assist your body to restore its balance & improve your mental & emotional health. Explore acupuncture, cupping, qi gong & meditation. Take home some simple DIY tips for better health.
2F. Shiitake Log Inoculation - Derrick Justin, Sureshift Mountain Biking & Foraging ⭐
Participants will learn fun facts about mushrooms & how to inoculate shiitake logs for home gardens. Each participant will practice inoculating logs & take home a fact sheet, an ordering catalog, & stickers.
2G. New & Unusual Fruit for Cold Climates - Thaddeus McCamant, Northwest Regional Development Center ⭐ WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Have you ever opened a catalog & wondered if a particular plant will grow in Northern Minnesota? We will discuss a variety of unusual crops that thrive in Zone 3 climates, including honeyberries, currants, gooseberries, seaberries, & other fruits. We will cover the problems & promises of each crop. This session is a follow-up to the Minnesota Institute of Sustainable Agriculture's publication: Perennial Fruit.
2H. Dangers to Minnesota Water Quality - Emma Needham, Alter Eagle Media LLC ⭐
Dive into an overview of water quality concerns in Minnesota. Emma has been staying informed about water quality issues as a water activist since 2013 & working in the media field since 2019. This session will cover a range of topics, including PFAS, tar sands pipelines, mining, & more.
2I. From Animal to Yarn: Step by Step Small Batch Fiber Processing - Gretchen Polkinghorne, Mavens Art Collective +
In this workshop, we will discuss & demonstrate how a fleece becomes yarn. We will also discuss trends in local fiber production & the benefits of local fiber animals & fiber processing.
2J. Living in the Middle of Everywhere - Ben Winchester, University of Minnesota
The notion that rural residents live “in the middle of nowhere” continues a negative narrative that is not based on the reality of community life. Modern life is complex as we live, work, shop, & play in a wide region. At the same time, most of our planning is done at a city or county level. Through an in-class Asset-Based Community Development exercise with simple but deep, learning outcomes, we will better understand the variations by age & interest of this web of regional activity.
Session 3 - 1:10-2:10
3A. Electrify Everything - Heidi Auel, Clean Energy Resource Teams + & Matthew Douglas-May, Center for Energy & Environment ⭐
Thinking of making the switch from gas to electric? This workshop will include information on the pillars of home electrification: insulation & air sealing, heat pumps for heating & cooling, heat pump hybrid water heaters, clothes dryers, induction stoves, & electrical service upgrades.
3B. Grazing as a Soil Strategy: Enhancing Ecosystems & Profitability - Aly Bergstrom, Cass Soil & Water Conservation District; Jim Chamberlin, Happy Dancing Turtle + & Thomas Stattelman, Stattelman Ranch
Learn about sustainable grazing management practices & explore the benefits of adaptive grazing, which promotes pasture health & maximizes forage use, leading to increased profitability. We’ll cover electric fencing, winter bale grazing, & using annual forages to extend the grazing season, all of which enhance livestock performance & reduce feed costs. Plus, learn about financial assistance opportunities to implement these strategies. Enhance your grazing practices for a healthier environment, thriving livestock, & a boost to your bottom line.
3C. Getting Wild with Jerked Venison - Anthony Brenner, Weeping Pine Acres, LLC
Heart healthy cooking doesn't mean it has to be flavorless. Let's bring Jamaica to the woods of Pine River & learn how to make Anthony's version of low sodium jerked venison tenderloins, coconut rice, & mango salsa.
3D. Our Story, Your Questions About Our Dairy Experience - Julia Carter & Jonathan Carter, Happy Cow Cheese
Curious about owning a cow? Hear our story of starting a home dairy & then bring your questions! Learn about the steps we took to purchase a cow, what happens day-to-day with dairy cows, & what in the world to do with all that milk! Find out how owning a cow will impact a homestead.
3E. Community + News: What’s Your Role in the Crazy World of Media? - Nora Hertel, Project Optimist +
Fake news. Misinformation. Bias. Trolls. Oh my! The world of news & media is a fractious place & it's changing all the time - across Minnesota & beyond. You'll learn how we got into this mess & how we could get out of it. Become an empowered consumer of news & information as you get a taste of citizen journalism.
3F. Sound Experience for Relaxation & Meditation - Cynthia Horbach, CynthiaRose Sound Art + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Enjoy a Himalayan sound bath experience with singing bowls, gong, & other percussion instruments by a sound therapy practitioner. There will be a brief discussion & more demonstration, which you may choose to observe or better yet, close your eyes to just drift & feel.
3G. Seed Saving Basics - Barbara Kaufman, Pine River Seed Library + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Examine seed saving steps from planning, through raising & harvesting seeds, & finally preparing them for storage. We will discuss issues such as preventing cross-breeding, selecting desirable traits, & correct processing techniques. There will be some hands-on demonstrations.
3H. Is Stressful Stress Stressing You Out? - Michelle Oie
Relationships, busyness, & isolation can be stressful. Unwind in a fun, relaxed, judgment-free environment. Learn the symptoms of burnout, 3 bitter blockages to slaying your stress, & 5 valuable tips to live a less stressful life. The workshop starts with a thoughtful talk & self-reflection worksheets. We wrap up with a fun “stress-free craft” to make & take home to display. Stop letting stress control you. Learn your triggers, use the tips, & take back control.
3I. Back to the Basics of Everyday Play - Peter Olson, Sheila Boldt, & Aimee Tagtmeier, WonderTrek Children’s Museum ⭐
This interactive session will help participants recognize the value of play in the lives of children & how each of us can champion bringing back everyday play. Sadly, childhood is under threat with increases in screen time, school testing & mental health issues. That is why WonderTrek is on a mission to bring back everyday play. Attendees will get hands-on with the power of play, & leave with practical tips on supporting free-choice play in your family & community.
3J. Climate-Ready Woodlands: Promoting the Resilience of Your Backyard Woods - Anna Stockstad, UMN Extension (Note: Presenter & Workshop Change! This session will now be virtual.)
As climate change puts pressure on Minnesota’s forests, woodland stewards can foster a resilient woodland by encouraging species that are predicted to adapt well to these changes and implementing strategies to protect more vulnerable species. To help people choose appropriate species for their woodlands, UMN Extension used modeled climate response data to create regionally-specific lists of climate-resilient native trees and plants, as well as tree species to protect using climate refugia (z.umn.edu/climateready). Through adoption of these lists, woodland stewards can holistically improve forest health by enhancing the resilience of Minnesota’s woods to climate change
Session 4 - 2:35-3:35
4A. Nurtured By Nature - Laura Adrian, Whole Life Elevation
Explore ways that connecting to nature can foster a sense of calm & creativity when life is overwhelming. Be guided through simple, nature-based practices that can have a calming effect on the nervous system such as grounding & mindfully connecting with the Earth. These practices can help reduce stress, cultivate emotional wisdom, & plant seeds for new ways of living that benefit you, your community, & the planet. It is recommended to bring a yoga mat for a lying down meditation (storage available).
4B. Cannabis Can Be for You - Megan Barthel, Hokey Pokey Eats + ⭐WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Learn about the different types of cannabis, cannabis components, benefits of use, & various consumption methods. There is so much information out there–let us provide straightforward info, backed by scientific research, training, & education, to get you started.
4C. Canning 101 - Deann Bradley, Minnesota Master Gardener & Herman Bradley ⭐ WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
In this introduction to canning, participants will learn the differences between pressure canning & water bath canning, including equipment & recipes needed, as well as which foods work best for each method. This will be a “show & tell” style session for beginners.
4D. Soil to Seed - Starting Healthy Plants - Jim Chamberlin, David Wilson, & Anna Smith, Happy Dancing Turtle + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Dig into what soil health is & techniques that promote it when starting plants. Participants will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty & learn how to use a soil blocker–a useful tool for growing healthy bedding plants. Get tips on what to look for when choosing seeds (or saving your own) & when to plant.
4E. Introduction to Mammal Tracking - Steven Dahlberg
Learn the basic footprint characteristics of common wild mammal groups in our region: dogs, cats, rodents, weasels, bears, rabbits/hares, & deer. We will cover the step-by-step process of footprint identification & then practice this art using representative, high-resolution photographs. There will be a pop quiz at the end!😉
4F. Protecting Northern Minnesota’s Lakes: Watersheds & Collective Action - Beth Carreno & Annie Knight (Presenter Change), Northern Waters Land Trust + ⭐
Discover how strategic land protection is key to sustaining the health of northern Minnesota’s iconic lakes. Explore the science behind watershed conservation & the interconnected roles of forests, shorelines, & wetlands in maintaining clean waters. Through inspiring case studies, learn how individual actions & community partnerships form the collective actions necessary to sustain these invaluable resources for future generations.
4G. Great Roots for Healthy Lakes - Laura Mendoza Romero, Great Roots, LLC +
Discover the value of diverse natural lakescapes. Learn how deep-rooted native plants along your shoreline can promote water quality, prevent erosion, & create a beautiful, sustainable ecosystem. We will talk about native plant options & common invasive species to keep an eye out for.
4H. Tribal Nations of Minnesota - Emma Needham, Alter Eagle Media LLC ⭐ WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Join Red Lake Nation citizen Emma Needham for a workshop designed to provide an introductory understanding of the cultural & historical backgrounds of Minnesota's 11 Tribal Nations. This session aims to equip attendees with the knowledge needed to interact more comfortably & effectively with Native communities in MN.
4I. Boundary Waters 101 - Melissa Olson, Guiding Spirit Journeys +
Learn aspects of preparing for & experiencing a backcountry canoe camping adventure, with emphasis on the Boundary Waters Canoe Area from a BWCA guide. Topics covered include history, route planning, points of interest, gear & equipment, cooking & menu options, site selection, & safety. We’ll touch on rules & regulations, portaging etiquette, & outdoor ethics that will foster a stewardship of the environment & preservation of wilderness spaces for generations to come.
4J. Make it Topical: Herbal Infused Oils + Salves - Marina Povlitzki, Plant Magick + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Herbs can be used topically to soothe irritation, calm inflammation, heal wounds, scare off bugs, bring needed moisture to an area, & more! Herbal oils are easy to make & use; there are two common methods we will address in this class. Herbal oils can be left in liquid form or turned into a salve with a more solid consistency. Learn some fun, easy, & effective ways to make herbal medicine for topical use, & build your home medicine cabinet.
4K. Alternative Chicken Coop Building - Doug Weiss, Balsam Moon Preserve + ⭐
Learn multiple alternative building methods to construct a low-cost, partially in-ground, solar-heated chicken coop. The basic structure applies earthship style from used tires, timber from the land & recycled steel roofing material. Tires are covered with dung plaster consisting of fresh cow manure, clay, sand, & cattail fluff. Straw-clay insulation & passive solar heating is also applied. Data on cost & efficiency will be presented.
4L. More Than Just Swamps: Learn to Love Wetlands - Stacy Zeigler, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Division of Natural Resources ⭐
Hang out with a true wetland fangirl turned wetland scientist. Discuss wetland basics relevant to central & northern MN & the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation. Learn about the water, soils, plants, & critters of wetlands & how wetlands interact with surface water, groundwater, drinking water & wastewater. Discover how peatlands are at the forefront of global efforts to manage fluctuating weather extremes. Ask questions & learn where you can find wetlands near you.
Session 5 - 4:00-5:00
5A. Making Cheese at Your Homestead Dairy - Julia Carter & Jonathan Carter, Happy Cow Cheese
Follow the process from cow to table as we walk you through making a basic cheese that every home dairy should be making! Take a look at our home dairy equipment & see how simple it can be.
5B. Biometeorology: Soil & Plants to Slow Water & Cool Our Climate - Jim Chamberlin, Happy Dancing Turtle + & Dr. Katie Ross, University of Technology Sydney
Biometeorology is the study of the atmospheric layer in contact with & directly affected by Earth’s surface, often referred to as the “boundary layer.” This layer is largely considered to be more vital to cooling & stabilizing the climate than the upper atmospheric gasses, which tend to be the focus of politicians & the media. Learn about beneficial techniques & common sense policies that can help to slow water & balance our climate.
5C. Making Artisan Sourdough Bread - Steven Dahlberg WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
This workshop will provide an overview of the sourdough process. Each participant will get their own starter going & mix up a sourdough loaf to take home & bake. As a class, we will go through the baking steps with a loaf that will be prepared ahead of time.
5D. Companion Planting for Pollinator Support in the Vegetable Garden - Emelia Davis WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Explore how to attract a wide variety & number of beneficial pollinators to your vegetable garden using companion planting. These techniques will lead to increasing crop yield & success, adding interest & beauty to your space & supporting local pollinators.
5E. Painting with Wool - Esther Endicott, Serenity Now Yarn & Alpaca Shop + WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Participants will learn & enjoy the process of needle felting. Make a beautiful spring landscape with flowers & a honey bee using wool & a needle. It's painting with wool!
5F. Mindful Meander - Alison Hendley, Birch Bark Healing
Practice mindfulness in nature as we spend time wandering outside & listening to how she reflects our questions & desires to bring healing & peace. Note: this class will be held outside, please bring appropriate clothing to stay warm.
5G. 5 Senses = Life Fulfilled - Kathryn Hillger, KK Death Doula Services ⭐
It is possible to live a fulfilled life using your 5 senses. Explore the role these senses have on everyday happiness, peace of mind, & enjoyment of life. Kathryn will share her personal awakening using some simple sensory exercises. In her work as an end of life doula, she has witnessed the comfort of sensory preferences during the final days with a human body. Begin to craft your personalized end of life sensory plan to share with future caregivers.
5H. Balancing Your Life: A Dive Into the 8 Dimensions of Wellness - Nicki Linsten-Lodge, Regional Prevention Coordinator ⭐
We will dive into the concept of a “balanced life” by exploring the 8 dimensions of wellness & how they may impact your life. There will be time to reflect on your physical, emotional, financial, social, spiritual, occupational, intellectual, & environmental wellness. Giving thought to each dimension will help you identify areas of strength & areas you might need to focus more attention on.
5I. Getting Started with Chickens - Amanda Montague, Bee’n Happy Farms +
Learn the basics of getting started with chickens including what you will need before bringing chickens home, the pros & cons of starting with chicks or adult birds, the timing of getting chickens, & feeding your birds at different life stages. We’ll troubleshoot wintering chickens in MN & some common issues, wrapping up with a Q&A.
5J. MN Climate is Changing - Is That Going to Affect the Fish I Like to Catch? - Carl Pedersen & Erin Haws, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ⭐
Get a basic introduction to identified changes to the climate that have taken place in Minnesota recently & how those changes are impacting fishing resources. Discover what changes are anticipated to continue & how fishing could potentially be impacted as a result.
5K. Hydroponics for Fun & Profit - Barry Thoele, Barry’s Cherries Hydroponic Produce WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
Get an introduction as well as a deeper dive into hydroponic system construction & operation. This workshop will include instructions on planning, constructing, purchasing equipment for, & operating indoor & high tunnel production systems. Gain insight on what to consider for harvesting, packing & storing fresh produce, as well as the sales & marketing of products.
5L. Start Seeing Mushrooms: An Introduction to Fungi - Kathy Yerich, Minnesota Mycological Society WORKSHOP FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED
As the ground starts to warm up, the woods come to life. One of the most anticipated spring events in the Midwest is hunting for morels. With more than 5,000 species of mushrooms found in our area alone, learning about them can be challenging, but also fascinating & rewarding. The most common mushroom question is always: "What is this & can I eat it?" Learn some tips on how to identify morels & many other mushrooms from Kathy, co-author of the local field guide, Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest.