By Blake Jackson
Calling all urban gardeners in Milwaukee! An exciting workshop hosted by Wisconsin Women in Conservation (WiWiC) offers valuable resources and knowledge to help you flourish.
This free event, held on April 16th from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, welcomes growers of all experience levels, regardless of the size of their plot.
Participants will gain insights into improving soil health and water conservation practices, leading to better yields and a thriving garden. Experts will also share innovative design ideas and funding opportunities to support these improvements.
The workshop agenda features presentations from representatives of the United States Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). They'll unveil new federal farm programs specifically designed to benefit small-scale, urban growers with fresh ideas. Even those without land ownership can participate and leverage these programs.
"Spring is the perfect time to turn winter dreams for your garden into reality," says Bridget Siler, a local soil conservationist with NRCS. This workshop provides a platform to transform those dreams into concrete plans.
Attendees will also have the chance to learn from Kaitlin Schott, the state's Urban Agriculture and Specialty Crops Conservationist with NRCS and an avid gardener herself. Her expertise in cultivating fruits, vegetables, and native plants will be a valuable addition to the workshop.
The overall goal of this event is to empower women growers with knowledge and resources for building resilient and successful gardens, big or small. The NRCS offers a variety of support options, including technical assistance and cost-sharing funding for projects like high tunnels, raised beds, irrigation systems, and pollinator plantings.
This workshop is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by WiWiC. This statewide program, led by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, fosters connections between women landowners, farmers, and conservation professionals. They offer a variety of resources beyond workshops, including mentorship programs and free, personalized conservation plans.
Join the network and empower yourself to cultivate a thriving urban garden!
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pixdeluxe
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Education