Homesteader and Self-Sufficiency Day
- Saturday, September 24, 2022, 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Have you dreamed of leaving society, finding a farm, and living off the land? Or maybe you already own a farm and want to learn more? Or, you just want to live a more sustainable lifestyle?
Whatever your motivation, CCE Saratoga County invites you to their Homesteader Day on Saturday September 24th. The full day event begins at 8:00 AM with workshops, live demonstrations, and presentations on subjects such as food preservation, livestock care, gardening and more; a full list with descriptions is below. The event is designed for all homesteaders, or those just dabbling, no experience is necessary.
Participants may stay and enjoy the entire day for $45 or choose a la carte options at $15 per class. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Lunch is not included, but there are picnic areas throughout the properties; participants are encouraged to bring food and enjoy the day!
“Feeling Sheepish”
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
We will be talking about raising sheep on a small homestead, the added value of certain breeds the time needed, and the costs of raising sheep.We will look at heritage breeds and what that means, along with the Wool Market and Meat Market. There will be some hands-on items for the group to see, such as sheep, wool, skeins, felting, wool uses, meat, etc.
“Session 1: Betterbee Presents: Getting Started with Beekeeping”
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
This session is intended to introduce you to the behavior and biology of honey bees, as well as the fundamental tools and hive equipment that a beekeeper needs to keep colonies of bees.You'll learn about bee biology, and how you can get started keeping bees next spring.The session is geared towards non-beekeepers who are thinking about becoming beekeepers, though beginner-level beekeepers may still benefit from some of the information. We will also leave some time for questions, and you will be able to examine a portable glass-walled "observation hive" full of live honey bees.
“Putting your Veggie Garden to sleep.”
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
This class will teach us how to prepare and plant our gardens for the cooler seasons ahead. Topics include site and soil preparation, vegetable variety selection, and perennial plant maintenance.
“Butchering Wild Game”
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
Being self-sufficient means growing/raising or gathering whatever you need to survive, which can include wild game. Harvesting meat such as venison is one of the leanest and healthiest meats of wild game. Learning how to butcher wild game can be an added skill to add to whether you are a homesteader or even just an avid hunter. *THIS IS A DOUBLE SESSION CLASS
"Woods Walk" Sustainable forestry management
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
This class will feature a 1-mile woods walk and discussion showcasing sustainable forestry practices to promote resilient and healthy ecosystems. Topics for discussion: Habitat enhancements like riparian buffers, assessing tree stand improvement methods, the identification and control of invasive species, including forest pests detrimental to our wood lots, and agroforestry options to grow bountiful and diverse woodlands with native plants. Receive a Forest Health Scorecard to take home and assess your own property.
“Session 2: Betterbee Presents: Taking Care of Your Honey Bee Colonies”
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
This session is intended for current beekeepers, who are interested in learning more about the best way to ensure colony survival over the coming winter.We will discuss fall and winter beekeeping, varroa mite management, feeding, and other relevant topics.We will leave ample time for questions about your own bees, and you will also be able to examine a portable glass-walled "observation hive" full of live honey bees.
“Fermenting Vegetables”
CCE Saratoga County Office Building
Fermentation is one of the oldest methods of food preservation used to extend the life of produce. Learn about the nutritional benefits of fermented foods, plus how to ferment vegetables, including equipment and techniques. Includes demonstrations on fermenting pickles and sauerkraut. Be prepared for some hands-on activity.
“Chickens 101”
12:15 PM – 1:45 PM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
Introducing chickens, whether it’s a 100-acre farm or a 3-acre homestead, can be a great way to get into raising livestock.There are many different breeds and for numerous different purposes. Not to mention all the different coop options and management choices can be overwhelming. Being able to narrow down what interest you and what your budget or space allows for can make raising chickens a successful and enjoyable endeavor.
“Composting”
12:15 PM – 1:45 PM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
This class will teach us the basics on starting and maintaining an indoor worm bin and outdoor compost system. Additional topics include why we compost, what we compost, and how we use our compost in the garden.
“Canning Meat”
12:15 PM – 3:30 PM
CCE Saratoga County Office Building
Canned meat requires no refrigeration or freezing, and remains safe indefinitely making it an essential part of the homesteader’s pantry. Learn the steps to safe pressure canning, a process that can be used for preserving vegetables and soups, too. Includes a demonstration of canning meat, plus a tasting of previously canned meat. *THIS IS A DOUBLE SESSION CLASS
“Pasture management”
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Saratoga County 4-H Training Center
When it comes to pasture, whether it is for horses, cattle, or any other livestock, how you manage and maintain it will determine how you benefit from it. Making your pasture work for you and feeding your livestock can be done with gradual steps and the implementation of management practices. Learning techniques such as pasture rotation, weed management, soil aeration, and seasonal housekeeping.
Fee
$15/ per class or $45 for the full day
Location
Saratoga County 4-H Training & Education Center
556 Middle Line Road
Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Last updated August 31, 2022
Click Here for Registration Information
