UF/IFAS Programs Cover Everything from Beekeeping to Homebuying

Posted On: September 16, 2025

Looking to pick up a new skill, connect with your community, or just try something fun and different? The UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County has you covered with hands-on programs for all ages.

Small Farm and Homesteading:This online series is designed for new small farmers and homesteaders looking to build a strong foundation in animal care, sustainable practices, and selling farm products. Topics include:

• Grass Farming 101: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2
• Legally Selling Livestock Products from You Farm: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13

The cost for each class is $5. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/small-farm-series.

Backyard Urban Chicken Class: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9. Extension Agent Ashley Stonecipher will discuss chicken breeds, proper housing, general health care, nutrition, manure management, and food safety. She will also explain how to find out if your property is approved for raising backyard poultry. This in-person class will be held at the Volusia County Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. The registration fee is $15 per household. Each registration is good for all family members living at the same address. Registration and payment can be made at https://Backyard-Chicken-Class.eventbrite.com.

First-time Homebuyer Class: 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 16 and 23. Extension Agent Lisa Hamilton will instruct this two-part online class, which consists of eight hours of education. Participants will receive a certificate of completion that will enable them to apply for a federal down payment and closing cost assistance program available through Volusia County, Seminole County, and the City of Deltona. The cost is $5 per household. Scholarships are available upon request. A Spanish-language class will be offered from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 21 and 28. Register at https://homebuyered.eventbrite.com.

Coffee with a Gardener:9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. Stop by for a Q-and-A session with Volusia County's master gardeners at the Volusia County Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. Whether you have garden questions, plant dreams you need assistance with, or a mystery leaf problem, the gardeners are here to help. Registration is not required.

Annie's Project: 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21. Extension staff will kick off an eight-week course that will empower women in agriculture to be successful through education, networks, and resources. The first class will be held at the Volusia County Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. Additional classes, which will be offered through a combination of in-person and virtual options, will be held on Oct. 28, Nov. 4 and 18, Jan. 20 and 27, and Feb. 3 and 10. The cost is $15 for individual sessions or $75 for all eight sessions. Register at https://annies-project.eventbrite.com.

Beginner Beekeeping Workshop: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Extension Agent Ashley Stonecipher will lead this workshop, which will help residents learn the basics so they can get started with their own hives. Topics will include honeybee biology, hive maintenance, regulations and inspections, and Africanized bees. This in-person class will be held at the Volusia County Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. The registration fee is $35 per household. Register at https://tinyurl.com/beekeeping-Volusia.

The UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County is a partnership with state, federal, and county governments to provide scientific knowledge and expertise to the public. Learn more at https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/volusia/.