- Author: Cris L. Johnson
The University of California Cooperative Extension in Ventura County in conjunction with the USDA's Risk Management Agency will conduct presentations and simulations on managing risk for farm operations.
The prepaid cost (by Friday September 21) is $20 per farm/ranch couple. After September 21 the cost will be $25. The registration fee includes lunch and instructional materials.
For more information go directly to the registration webpage.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Presented by the Ventura County Ag Futures Alliance last month’s agricultural summit set out to increase connections and support between the local agricultural industry and the larger community.
Approximately 250 community stakeholders (farmers, ranchers, distributors, buyers, chefs, policy makers, public health advocates, community planners, and others) attended the Making Connections: How the Local Food Movement Can Support Ventura County Agriculture themed event.
Agriculture is an important part of our local economy. Like any other industry, agriculture has its share of challenges and opportunities. Shared dialog between producers and consumers within our area provides a wonderful bridge to reduce and minimize challenges while finding ways to increase awareness and collaboration. Attendees discussed distribution systems, public health, land use, childhood obesity, urban encroachment, pesticides, labor needs, water, and the need for fresh food education and marketing,
Additional information about the summit, and the issues discussed, can be found at the Ag Innovations Network website, this Ventura County Star article, and this radio piece by KCLU.
Support for this program came from many in the community. Sponsors include the UC Thelma Hansen Fund. The purpose of the Hansen Fund is to support and maintain University research and extension activities for the sustainability and benefit of agriculture and natural resources in Ventura County. A complete list of donors can be found here.

- Author: Chris M. Webb
On Tuesday, March 6 UC Hansen Agricultural Center (UC HAC) will hold a preschool open house from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Preschoolers and their grown-ups are invited to participate in the following activities:
- Story time in the garden
- Herbie the Seed Puppet
- Worms
- Plant a seed
- Zoo garden hunt
Attendees are invited to enjoy snacks or lunch from home at on-site picnic tables. No food or drink will be available for purchase.
There is no cost to attend, but reservations are required. To register or for more information, please see the UC HAC website .

- Author: Chris M. Webb
Join the UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners for a half day workshop at the beautiful UC Hansen Agricultural Center on Saturday, November 5.
The theme for this workshop is Gifts from the Garden. Learn to use plant materials to create holiday gifts. The workshop will be held from 8:15 to noon.
An optional hand-on gift makeing activity will follow the workshop. Bring a sack lunch. All materials will be provided.
Garden and docent-guided farmhouse tours will be available.
The cost of the workshop is $25. Space is limited. You can register online. Please direct questions to UCCE Master Gardener Coordinator, Leah Haynes, or by calling 805-645-1450.

- Author: Chris M. Webb
Learn about Ventura County Agriculture and take home free farm fresh vegetables for dinner!
Join UC Hansen Agricultural Center staff on November 5 from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm for Harvest Day.
Activities include:
- Farm fresh produce – you harvest, we provide bag
- Vegetable cooking demonstration
- Faulkner House tour
- Farm tour
This event is free. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 805-525-9293 ext. 214 or email today to reserve your spot!
