By Oniska Blevins | The Selma Times-Journal

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System in Dallas County is offering a new course called “Farming 101” in February.

“The goal of the series is to assist beginning and transitioning farmers in making good decisions in choosing an agricultural enterprise while learning about other resources to assist them in accomplishing their farming goals,” said Callie Nelson, county extension coordinator.

James Miles, regional extension agent, said another goal of these courses is to help people bridge the gap and learn how to transition from being an everyday gardener to becoming a profitable farmer.

Miles said experts and specialists will speak to the classes and teach new farmers about the resources that are available to them and how to be economically profitable.

“It’s an economic driver. You can start making an income, it’s entrepreneurship, family involvement and physical health,” Miles said.

Topics include site selection and basics soils; livestock management; farm management; fruit production; beekeeping; protected production; certification, regulations, resources and restrictions; vegetable production; and value added products.

The cost for the entire nine-week series is $80 or $10 per session including materials and refreshments. All classes will be held at the Central Alabama Farmers Co-op from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. every other Tuesday evening beginning Feb. 13 and concluding on June 12.

To register, or for more information, contact the Dallas County Extension Office at (334) 875-3200 or email milesjd@auburn.edu. The deadline for registering is Monday, Feb. 5.