The Wisconsin Farm Center has announced its winter schedule of weekend retreats on managing the stresses of farming. According to organizers, these upbeat learning experiences are designed to provide new perspectives on old issues and are available to farm men and women.
"Farming offers abundant opportunities to experience independence, pride of ownership and the satisfaction of producing; however, it can also bring out many stresses and issues including anxiety and depression," said Kathy Schmitt with the Wisconsin Farm Center at the Department of Agriculture. "These mini-vacations offer the perfect opportunity for insight and reflection on many of these important issues through excellent leadership and first-hand personal insights."
There is no cost to attend the two-day seminars. Grant funds cover conference expenses including refreshments, meals, lodging, instruction and materials. Assistance may also be available to those that need help paying for labor or child care while they are at the getaway.
The small-group conferences will be held during the following dates and locations:
* Farm Women's Weekend Getaway, Jan. 27-28, Fennimore
* Farm Couples' Weekend Getaway, Feb. 3-4, Spring Green
* Farm Couples' Weekend Getaway, Feb. 24-25, Black River Falls
* Farm Men's Weekend Getaway, March 10-11, Wausau
* Farm Couples' Weekend Getaway, March 24-25, Shawano
The conferences are supported by grants from the U.S Department of Health and Human Services Office of Rural Health Policy of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, along with private foundations and contributions. Sponsors include DATCP and the Sowing Seeds of Hope project.
For more information or to register, call (608) 224-5048.