Beginning farmer learning circle series begins Aug. 28 in Lincoln

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Beginning farmers, landowners, and land managers are invited to attend a free conservation workshop series, hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs. 

Five classroom sessions are included in this series, starting Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 4 to 7 p.m. The Beginning Farmer Learning Circle continues at the same time on Sept. 4, 11, 25, and Oct. 2, all at Prairie Pines, 3100 N. 112th St., in Lincoln.

“Often, beginning farmers want more information on conservation,” said Kirstin Bailey, project organizer for the Center for Rural Affairs. “It is vitally important that farmers learn about, understand, and select the best conservation practices based on a solid understanding of climate and soil science. In these sessions, experts and peers can share where to find that information.”

The workshops will include field tours at local farms, and demonstrations by experts in Nebraska cropping systems, conservation, and climate change. The events are designed to help broaden farmers’ understanding of farming practices under changing weather patterns.

Presenting the workshop is Martha Shulski, state climatologist and director of the Nebraska State Climate Office at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Natural Resources. Shulski translates climate data and conditions.

“High Plains states experience what is considered a ‘highly continental climate’ when it comes to weather and climate,” Shulski said. “This means it’s highly variable and mitigating impacts is even more relevant in ever-changing conditions. A lot of opportunity exists to take what we’ve learned in the past and apply it to the future. We learn how to better prepare.”

This program is made possible with funding from a Conservation Innovation Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service.

Lunch will be provided. Registration is required by Aug. 24. Visit cfra.org/events for more information.