Community members interested in gardening and local food production are invited to attend the next Growers and Producers Forum on Thursday, March 12, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Community United Methodist Church on Lewis Street.
This session will focus on “Gardening Basics for Vegetable and Fruit Production,” with practical guidance for starting or improving a garden in Archuleta County’s high-country climate.
Topics will include selecting and preparing a garden site, building healthy soil, choosing between in-ground gardens and raised beds, composting, irrigation and fertilizing, protecting plants from wildlife and weather, and deciding what to plant and when throughout the growing season.
The forum will also explore strategies such as container gardening; companion planting; harvesting and storage; and growing perennial fruits, herbs and vegetables.
Whether you are new to gardening or have years of experience, the Growers and Producers Forum offers an opportunity to learn practical techniques, share experiences and connect with others working to strengthen local food production in Archuleta County.
To join the conversation, please send Healthy Archuleta an email at fsfearchuleta@gmail.com to confirm your participation.
Additionally, registration is now open for the 2026 Archuleta Food Summit on April 18 at Pagosa Springs High School.
The summit will bring together residents, growers, organizations and partners to explore ways to strengthen the county’s food system and improve nutrition security, including an interactive simulation of the Archuleta Community Food Hub and Food Hall.
Learn more and register at www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/archuleta-food-summit.html.
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