By Scout Nelson
A hands-on workshop in Minnesota offers a great learning opportunity for small-scale growers who want to improve soil health. Organized by the University of Minnesota Extension, this event focuses on the use of cover crops in vegetable gardens, urban farms, and other small farming systems.
The workshop is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Central time. It takes place at the Sherburne County History Museum in Becker, Minnesota. Another session is planned for May 7, 2026, at the Stearns County Service Center in Waite Park, giving participants more options to attend.
The program is designed for growers in nearby counties, including Stearns, Benton, Morrison, and Sherburne. It is especially useful for beginners as well as those who want to improve their current farming practices.
Participants learn important topics such as selecting the right cover of crop species, deciding the best time to plant, and managing crop termination. The workshop also explains how cover crops help reduce soil erosion, control weeds, and improve soil fertility without using large machines.
The training is practical and easy to understand, making it suitable for small-scale growers. It provides useful tips that participants can apply directly to their fields or gardens during the current growing season.
The event is free, but registration is required. Interested participants can sign up through the official link.
After registration, detailed directions to the location will be shared by email. The organizers also ensure equal access for all participants. People needing special accommodation should contact the organizers at least two weeks before the event. Language support services may also be available if requested early.
Overall, this workshop is a valuable opportunity for growers to learn simple and effective ways to improve soil health and increase farm productivity using cover crops.
Photo Credit: pexels-binyaminmellish
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Education, General