Have an acre of land and want to make an extra $1,000 or more? When it comes to farming, it turns out that small is not only beautiful – small is also sustainable, manageable, and productive. Are you dreaming of becoming self-sufficient? It is highly unlikely that any two 1-acre farms will follow the same approach, but we will discuss the possibilities. In this four-part series of classes, we will explore farming or gardening for profit (and not necessarily enough to live on) as a business enterprise. Then, set your dreams on the right track with tips and resources for planning your own compact farm.
Classes will be held at the Extension office on Monday evenings from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the following dates: April 6, 13, 20 and 27.
Topics covered will include:
- pasturing poultry (hatching eggs, broilers, turkey) ~ April 6
- asparagus (growing and marketing) ~ April 13
- heirloom tomatoes (growing, varieties and marketing) ~ April 20
- beekeeping, and what’s next ~ April 27
There are many alternatives out there; within the period allotted to this series, more options will be discussed, or classes planned later to address other options.
The fee for the entire course is $50 per person, or $15 for select classes. To register, visit https://web.extension.illinois.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=21871 to reserve your spot by April 1. If you need more information, call 815-933-8337 or email froning@illinois.edu.