CORVALLIS - An increasing number of Oregonians are choosing to live on a few acres where they can raise livestock, but they may not know exactly what it entails.

So Oregon State University is offering a "school" for rookies.

The registration deadline is April 2 and seating is limited for the all-day campus session, which will teach the basics of how to raise livestock.

Participants will choose the species they study - beef cattle, poultry, sheep or swine at OSU's "Basic Livestock Management School," said Garry Stephenson, a small farms agent in the Benton County Extension office.

"The school will provide in-depth training for folks who are new to raising livestock or those looking to broaden their experience," he said. "The focus will be on the interests of small acreage landowners."

Couples, who will receive a reduced registration rate, may choose to split up and participate in two sessions, said Stephenson. A general session on livestock management and water quality sessions will be offered, he noted.

Registration is $35 per person or $60 per couple. Additional family members can register for $30 each. Registration includes a catered lunch, beverages and printed materials participants will be able to bound into a resource book, according to Stephenson.

The school will be held at LaSells Stewart Center on campus. It is sponsored by the OSU Extension Service's Small Farm Program. To register, or for more information, contact the Benton County Extension office at 541-757-6750 or 1-800-365-0201 (within Oregon's 541 area code).

Source: 

Garry Stephenson, 541-737-6750

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