While much of the country is winding down its gardens for the winter, growers in southern Nevada are just getting started. To help locals take advantage of the unique desert climate, the University of Nevada, Reno Extension is launching its Harvest to Health program this fall. This six week educational series aims to teach participants how to cultivate vegetables during the cooler months while diving deeper into the complexities of food production, waste reduction, and community resilience.
The program kicks off on September 29 and runs every Tuesday through November 3 at the Extension office on Paradise Road. For fifteen dollars per session, attendees get more than just a lecture; they will receive a seed starting kit to implement their new skills immediately at home. According to Lori Leas, an Extension Master Gardener program officer, the course provides a rare look at the entire journey of food from the initial seed all the way to the dinner table.
Throughout the series, students will tackle everything from garden design and soil improvement to irrigation and natural pest management. The curriculum blends practical horticulture with larger conversations about nutrition and food access, ensuring that whether someone is a complete beginner or a seasoned grower, they walk away with a better understanding of how sustainable gardening strengthens overall community well-being.
Led by a team of Extension educators and Master Gardener volunteers, each session features interactive activities and group discussions designed to make science accessible. By linking gardening habits with nutritional health, organizers hope to empower residents to increase their own household food production and reduce environmental waste. Those interested in joining can contact Lori Leas via email or phone to register for the upcoming classes.
