University of Wisconsin-Extension in Jackson County is hosting some new classes in the next few weeks covering gardening and farming practices.  Extension is holding a workshop from 10 a.m. until noon Saturday presented by the Jackson County Master Gardeners on how to start a monarch habitat. The class will cover topics such as how to best plant seeds, different types of milkweed plans, and do-it-yourself methods for setting up grow lights.  People who participate in the workshop will also be able to pick up seeds for four milkweed varieties as well as native and non-native nectar plants.  The monarch habitat workshop is free of charge.  On Jan. 24 and Feb. 21, the extension will be hosting pesticide applicator training at the Jackson County UW-Extension office at 227 S. First St. in Black River Falls.  The training lasts from 10 a.m. until noon with an open book examination to follow.  Pesticide applicator training is required by state law for anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides, but is open to anyone who uses pesticides regardless of whether they are restricted-use or not.

Reservations are required for the training and there is a fee of $30 that includes materials and certification with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection.  Trempealeau and Eau Claire counties will also be hosting classes as well. For times of those classes, check jackson.uwex.edu.  The classes are a part of the UW-Extension’s broader goal to provide resources and information to the people of the state where they live and work.  To reserve a spot in the pesticide applicator training or for any questions about either class, call (715) 284-4257.