Bruno Borsari

Winona State University will host Backyard Chickens for Sustainable Living with Bruno Borsari, associate professor of biology, Saturday, Sept. 21, on the WSU campus.

This interactive workshop is the first in WSU’s new workshop series on urban micro-farming. In this full-day, non-credit workshop, attendees will be introduced to the benefits and care requirements of raising chickens in an urban environment. Topics will include:

  • The origin of chickens and the characteristics of various breeds
  • The biological principles of chickens, including how they reproduce and develop
  • The resources needed to design and maintain a chicken and neighborhood-friendly backyard
  • The value and benefits of raising chickens

“Chickens are wonderful and very productive pets that bring food, valuable manure, entertainment and biodiversity to the urban backyard,” said Borsari.

The Urban Micro-Farming Workshop Series aims to explore practical approaches to environmentally sustainable lifestyles and stewardship for urban residents, and to encourage and support the planning, development and production efforts of urban micro-farmers. Additional sessions include:

  • Soils and Vermicomposting – Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013
  • Beekeeping Basics – Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014
  • Gardening for Pollinators – Saturday, March 15, 2014

Instructor Borsari has more than 25 years of experience in habitat restoration and sustainable agriculture. Enrollment is open to the public. Tuition per session is $85. Register for all four workshops by Friday, Sept. 6, and save $20.

The Urban Micro-Farming Workshop Series is offered through WSU Outreach and Continuing Education with support from the WSU Foundation. To learn more or register, visit winona.augusoft.net or call 507-457-5080.