AUSTIN, Minn. — Riverland Community College is launching a new Home and Market Gardener Training Program for people interested in growing their own food and learning about small-scale farming.
The program runs Mondays from April 20 through October 26 at the Austin campus, with no classes on May 25 or Sepember. 7. Sessions start at 5:30 p.m. in Room A108 of the West Building.
The program is designed for beginning gardeners, aspiring growers and community members. Participants will get their own garden plot at Riverland, weekly instruction and mentorship, and a full-season growing experience.
Ruth Jovaag-Ofstedal, a local farmer and vegetable gardener, will lead the instruction. The curriculum covers sustainable and organic growing practices, soil and water management, pest and weed control, season extension and post-harvest handling. The program also introduces participants to local food marketing and entrepreneurship basics.
“This program reflects Riverland’s commitment to serving our communities by providing practical, hands-on learning opportunities that build skills and support self-reliance,” Peggy Young, customized training representative at Riverland, said. “Participants will not only learn how to grow healthy food, but also how to connect that knowledge to community and economic impact.”
Participants will receive a copy of The Market Gardener: A Successful Grower’s Handbook for Small-Scale Agriculture as part of the course materials. The cost is $99 per gardener, offered at an introductory rate made possible through community support.
Space is limited. For more information or to register, visit www.riverland.edu/cect or call 507-433-0573.
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