By Morgan Watts

Rowan Cooperative Extension

Summer is a busy time for everyone, including farmers. Many different workshops are happening this summer. Check out the upcoming events below. If you have any questions, please call Morgan Watts, livestock agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension, at 704-216-8970 or stop by the office at 2727-A Old Concord Road.

The first big event is Farmers’ Day in China Grove. This event will be held on Saturday, July 21, from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Cooperative Extension, Extension Master Gardeners and 4-H will have a booth on display. There will be many vendors selling crafts and food. There will also be a dance and firework display that evening. Come see us at Farmers’ Day.

The second event is a Small Ruminant (sheep/goat) Grazier’s Workshop. This workshop will be held Saturday, Aug. 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Piedmont Research Station, 8530 Sherrills Ford Road. Topics for this event will include improving flock hoof health, cost-share programs for pasture improvements, breeding stock selection, forage systems for small ruminants and a hands-on hoof trimming demonstration. Lunch will be provided. If you would like to come, please RSVP by July 27 to 704-216-8970.

The next event will be a Summer Forage Management Workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 14, from 6-8p.m. at Circle D Beef, 350 Saw Road, China Grove.

The program will consist of soil health in grazing systems, contribution of dung beetles in pasture management, using temporary fence to subdivide pastures, forage management to improve soil nutrient distribution and choosing warm season grasses for fescue systems. To register for this event, please call the Rowan County Center at 704-216-8970.

Last but not least is the Woodleaf Tomato Festival on Saturday, Aug. 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 885 Woodleaf Barber Road. There will be food, venders and entertainment. A parade will also be held at 10 a.m. Come enjoy all the fun.