Learn how to preserve food safely with Illinois Extension

DECATUR — Home gardening and food preservation have become more popular in recent years. People are taking advantage of preserving food at home to enjoy the fruits of their labor throughout the year. Learn how to water-bath and pressure can with the University of Illinois Extension and be ready for next year’s gardening season.

Yes! You Can: Preserving Safely workshop will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on December 12 at the Maroa Public Library, 305 Garfield St. in Maroa. Nutrition and wellness educator Caitlin Mellendorf will share up-to-date information to increase confidence in safely preserving at home and explain the steps to get started or refresh current skills. Participants may also bring their dial-gauge pressure canner lids to be tested.

“While fresh tomatoes will eventually decompose, preserving methods like canning gives them a longer shelf life,” says Mellendorf. “Maybe those tomatoes are canned into a salsa for a taste of summer in the fall.”

The event is free, but participants should register by December 9 either in person at the library or by calling (217) 794-5111. There is an alternative date of December 19 in the event of inclement weather. For more information, contact Caitlin at [email protected] or call (217) 877-6042.

The University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact 217-877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.

Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

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Maria Lightner is the marketing and communications program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension. She currently serves the area covering DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt counties.

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