After receiving numerous inquiries about gardening and food preservation, the Henry County Extension Agents for ANR and FCS launched the Gardening Basics & Food Preservation workshop series. The four-part series was promoted through local media and social platforms.

The first session, Garden Plans and Preparations, covered garden size, crop selection, location, soil sampling, and fertilizing, led by the ANR Agent. The second workshop, taught by UK specialists, focused on disease and pest management in the garden.

The final two sessions, led by the FCS Agent, focused on food preservation. The first covered pressure and water bath canning, including demonstrations and required tools. The second introduced dehydrating and freezing techniques, featuring samples of fruit leathers and freezing methods for various produce and meats.

Over 40 participants, from homeowners to professionals, attended the series. Evaluations showed that 40% were beginners, and many reported increased confidence and knowledge in both gardening and preserving food.