Farming is the heart and soul of Oklahoma. Most Oklahoma families have been farming for generations. Others have recently picked up the practice. And for those who are wanting to learn more about farming, the Oklahoma Local Agriculture Collaborative is offering a free workshop and farm tours in Lawton, Oklahoma.

The goal of the Oklahoma Local Agriculture Collaborative (OLAC) is to "strengthen and grow the capacity of Oklahoma’s local agriculture" by "improving communication and access to underutilized resources; developing technical support systems to foster innovative practices; and creating a statewide registration and membership network for producers and direct-to-consumer markets."

OLAC is a result of the Regional Food System Partnership Grant, which was awarded to the ONIE Project, and focuses "on rural markets and underserved communities to ensure that all Oklahomans have equal access."

Learn about local farms during the 2024 Western OLAC Workshop in Lawton, Oklahoma.

OLAC will host its 2024 Western Workshop on Thursday, Oct. 10 at the Lawton Farmers Market. The workshop is free to attend and attendees will receive "resources and agricultural education from local agencies and producers." The workshop will cover "business development, grants & funding, soil health, and producer success stories."

The workshop will also offer local farm tours on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The tour will visit multiple farms in the Lawton area, including Cunning Cultivations, Jose's Farm, 4J Meats, Sullivan's Farm & Dairy and Cross B Blooms.

Those interested in attending the farm tours and/or the workshop are encouraged to pre-register as space is limited.

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Gallery Credit: Jeri Anderson

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Not all insects are pests! There are some insects that are beneficial to you and your garden. In a study by the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service on beneficial insects, "most insects found in yards, gardens or crops do not feed on or harm plants. Many are just 'passing through' or have very innocuous habits. Others feed on and destroy pest species. In many cases, the activities of these beneficial species can prevent or greatly limit pest problems."

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