Gardening for Future Generations |
As we move forward into a new planting season, there are several steps gardeners can take to make their gardens more sustainable. The definition of sustainable landscaping can vary but generally speaking, it means to use resources in a way that will meet our needs today while preserving environmental health and resources for future generations. A sustainable garden not only conserves on environmental impacts but can also save us time, labor and money.
Long-term planning for a sustainable landscape includes creating a design that is attractive, functional, cost efficient, environmentally friendly and maintainable. However, there are things we can do in the short term to meet some of those objectives. When planning your garden beds, consider what can be done to promote total plant health and reduce the need for inputs such as fertilizers, water and pest controls.
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The week of February 23rd is National Invasive Species Awareness Week. This past gardening season, I had several questions about two invasive critters that plagued gardeners:
1. Jumping Worms – Jumping worms are invasive earthworms first confirmed in Wisconsin in 2013. They feed on organic matter, such as leaf litter and mulch, and within the soil. They excrete grainy-looking, hard little pellets (“castings”) that alter the texture and composition of the soil. For more information of jumping worms, visit the WI DNR’s webpage on Jumping Worms.
2. Lily Leaf Beetle – LLB can cause significant damage to true lilies (Lilium spp.), including both native and cultivated types, as well as fritillaries (Fritillaria spp.) Learn more at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/lily-leaf-beetle/. For more information on invasive species I.D. and impacts in Wisconsin, visit the Wisconsin First Detector Network.
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Curious about Livestock Resources? |
Check out our statewide website to explore research-based resources and expert guidance that support animal health, herd management, and sustainable livestock operations.
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Pesticide Applicator Training |
Drone Use in Agriculture Survey |
Curious about Crops & Soils Resources? |
Check out our statewide website to explore research-based resources and expert guidance that support managing soil health, improving crop production, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
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Chippewa Valley Healthy Water Summit
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Registration for the Chippewa Valley Healthy Water Summit will open soon! Join us on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Chippewa Valley Technical College’s West Campus in Eau Claire for this one‑day event focused on local water quality. The cost to attend is $20. Stay tuned for registration details.
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Checking your Farm Pulse, in today's Markets |
Decision making in agriculture often blends business, family, and long-term planning. Checking Your Farm Pulse in Today’s Markets offers a forum to explore these choices through practical discussion of business planning, enterprise budgeting, and contracts. The event highlights perspectives from women in agribusiness, while welcoming all who support farm decision making, with a focus on building stability today and a lasting generational legacy.
Join us on March 6th from 9 am - 3 pm at Dixon's Autumn Harvest (19947 Co Hwy J, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729). The cost to attend is $20.00, cash or check payable to Chippewa County Treasurer.
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Focus on Forage Webinar Series – Thursdays in February 2026
UW–Madison Extension’s Focus on Forage is a free, four-part webinar series designed to help farmers and advisors optimize forage yield, quality, and profitability. Sessions run Thursdays in February from 12:30–1:30 p.m. Topics include forage management, research updates, managed grazing, and cover crops. Certified Crop Advisor CEUs and ARPAS credits available.
Dates & Topics:
Feb. 5: Forage Management
Feb. 12: Forage Research
Feb. 19: Managed Grazing
Feb. 26: Forage Cover Crops
Learn more and register at go.wisc.edu/FocusOnForage.
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Register now for the UW–Madison Extension Agriculture Water Quality Program’s Webinar Series
The Agriculture Water Quality Program’s webinar series is back for a fourth year, focusing on farming practices that impact ground and surface water quality. This free weekly webinar series will highlight the latest research in conservation practices that will give you new tools and resources to consider for your farm.
Topics include water quality impacts of dairy heifer grazing, tile drainage, nitrogen budgeting and leaching, goals for cover crops, and advancing our journey with phosphorus.
When: Tuesdays from February 3–March 24 from noon-1:00 p.m.
Register at go.wisc.edu/agwaterwebinars.
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Is beef production in your future? Maybe you are new to beef production or perhaps you are a dairy producer thinking about adding or transitioning to cow-calf production. If so, then join the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension Beef School for Beginners. Six, free,1 ½ hour online classes will be held from 7 - 8.30 pm in 2026 on January 27, 29, and February 3, 5, 10, and 12.
To register for this free six-part course, please visit this link: https://go.wisc.edu/iyk21t
Registration closes on January 26, 2026.
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Wisconsin Beef Quality Assurance Certification |
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The statewide Extension website is your go-to place for helpful information, classes, and events offered across the state. Whether you’re interested in farming, gardening, health, youth programs, or community resources, you can quickly find tools and programs available in your area. Visit the statewide event calendar to find upcoming events happening in your area!
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Connect with us on our websites to learn more, stay updated and get in touch!
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The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.
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