AgriLife Extension to hold Backyard Basics programs in July, August in Bandera

BANDERA — Bandera County residents interested in learning the basics of food preservation and/or how to can or jam fruits and vegetables are invited to attend Backyard Basics workshops in July and August at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office for Bandera County.

The office is located at 2886 Highway 16 North in Bandera.

“These two programs are part of our Backyard Basics series, which focuses on healthy living through the production, preparation and preservation of homegrown and homemade foods,” said Stacy Teston, AgriLife Extension family and consumer sciences agent for Bandera County.

The first program, called “The Basics of Food Preservation,” will be held from 1-3:30 p.m.  July 17. During the program attendees will learn how to use a pressure canner and water-bath canner to preserve homemade foods.

“Attendees will learn the techniques and skills needed to safely can homegrown vegetables and fruits,” Teston said. “They also will take home a jar of canned tomatoes.”

The second program, “Jams and Jellies,” will be from 1-3:30 p.m. Aug. 21. In this program, attendees will learn how to make and process their own jams, jellies and preserves.

“This will be a practical yet fun demonstration in which attendees will get hands-on experience, including making their own jam,” she said.

Teston said with consumers becoming more concerned about where their food comes from and how it is made, these and other Backyard Basics programs show people how they can have more control over their own food-making process.

“People also have the satisfaction of learning how to do these things by themselves, using methods and techniques that are similar to what their parents or grandparents may have used,” Teston added.

The cost is $20 per person for each program. For more information or to register, contact the AgriLife Extension office in Bandera County at 830-796-7755.

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