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UNIVERSITY PARK -- For those wanting to learn more about raising beef, sheep or goats on smaller tracts of land, Penn State Extension is offering a webinar, "Living on a Few Acres: Backyard Beef, Sheep, and Goats," Oct. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m.
This session is designed for the beginning producer or homesteader and for those looking to become more self-sufficient in beef cattle, sheep and goat production.
This event is perfect for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of starting a beef, sheep or goat enterprise, according to organizers. Participants can learn about breed selection, feeding, reproduction, health, marketing, pasture management and grazing management.
Instructors also will share how to find more detailed information on various aspects of livestock production, as well as the basics of cool-season pasture species, grazing schemes and ruminant nutrition. The session also will cover some of the main poisonous plants that can be harmful to livestock.
Participants must register by 6 p.m. Oct. 9 to receive the link to access the live webinar. A $5 registration fee accompanies the event. Registrants also will receive access to the webinar recording.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/living-on-a-few-acres-backyard-beef-sheep-and-goats
Extension to offer
pesticide workshop
LEWISTOWN -- Penn State Extension is offering an in-person workshop to assist individuals employed to apply pesticides to customers' properties, by the state, a municipality, a public school district, or by an employer funded with public money. Also, anyone who intends to purchase and apply restricted-use pesticides to property they or their employer own or rent to produce an agricultural commodity, including nursery and greenhouse crops.
The class is being offered in the Mifflin County Penn State Extension office, 152 E. Market St., Lewistown on Oct. 22-23, 2025. The two-day class is from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch is not provided. You will need to bring your own or use local food options.
Learn about the safe and effective handling of pesticides in a classroom-based workshop designed to prepare participants for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Certified Pesticide Applicator exam. Each session combines recorded presentations with an in-person instructor, who will answer questions, facilitate discussion, and support participants in understanding the material, helping them advance their certification goals.
Topics covered: Category 23 – Park and school pest control requirements for applying pesticides in campgrounds, recreational areas, and on elementary or secondary school properties.
Study materials are not included with the $60 registration fee. All participants are responsible for obtaining their own certification examination training materials. To ensure materials arrive on time, order your training packets in advance from the Penn State Extension website or by calling 877-345-0691. If you plan to use previously purchased packets, be aware that some materials have been updated. Ensure your study materials include the most current manuals.
Pre-registration is required. Register at extension.psu.edu by searching "Pesticide Applicator Short Course" or by calling (877) 345-0691. The deadline to register is Oct. 17, 2025.