Homesteading In the 21st Century 

Going back to the land means different things to different people.  For some its planting a garden and for others its living completely from their own means.    The modern homesteader can provide food, fuel, and shelter for themselves and family.    A new age of homesteader is embracing a mixture of technology and traditional wisdom to expand their skills and gain control of their lives.   Whether you have a small plot of land or several acres you can benefit from the upcoming program sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County and Milton Grange #685.   Information will be available on many topics including but not limited to:   gardening, equipment, livestock, wood harvesting, the local environment, trapping, and traditional skills, as well as, educational programs during the day.
Site: 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, 1/4 mile north of Rt 67
For more information contact Kirk Shoen kjs264@cornell.edu   or  Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County (518) 885- 8995

Bee keeping, how to get started  and an advanced Q & A after the talk

Making Butter, Making Ice cream the old fashion way by Milton Grange members

Solar power how it works, current applications and how to get started if you want to take advantage of “clean power”

Try a tractor for yourself,find out what size may be best for you

Blacksmithing experience the sounds and smells of a blacksmith shop

See plain iron bend to the will of fire and a smith’s hand

Animal feed and nutrition, ever wonder why pigs get 16% protein and turkeys over 20%? How are feeds formulated and the science behind them.

Learn about gun safety, how skill and practice can make you a successful marksmen.

Fruits always taste better when your preserved goodies are eaten as the snow flies, or given as a gift to a friend. Learn how to start and where to get more information on future classes

A skill long utilized by outdoorsmen.

See the experts skin and put up the hide.

Talk to experienced trappers to learn  proper fur handling techniques, which will bring more $ in your fur check.

See how to “buck up” wood. Types of wood. Ask the experts about sharpening and taking care of a valuable homestead tool