Ridin’ Rides — & BULLS ’n BRONCOS — at the 2019 WI Valley Fair

The most talked-about feature of the 151st annual Wisconsin Valley Fair was the addition of a traditional rodeo put on by Dakota Rodeo Company. If you missed all the bull-riding, barrel-racing, and calf-roping ACTION, check out the stunning visual highlights in the full story.

What’s more? Plans are in the works to bring the rodeo back for another go ’round at the Wisconsin Valley Fair next year! (Click the title for details…)

Gaining Ground Gardens :: Growing Inmate Skills Through Horticulture Therapy

Gaining Ground Gardens is a new community garden in Wausau using UW-Extension staff and area volunteers to introduce Marathon County Jail inmates to therapeutic horticulture. A garden was also started at the Marathon County Juvenile Facility. The gardens aim to provide stress relief, a sense of purpose and belonging, and strengthened vocational skills to community members in need.

Gaining Ground Gardens was created solely with private donations. With financial support, the gardens aim to add walkways, birdhouses, additional beds, rain barrels, and a garden shed. The gardens are also seeking volunteers to assist with mentoring and gardening advice for participants. (Click the title for details…)

Wild Parsnip Poses Health Risk :: Learn How to Safely Remove This Invasive Species in Marathon County

Wild Parnsnip abounds along roadsides in Marathon County. Removing it can be tricky as the sap can cause skin rashes.

Learn how to spot and then safely remove this invasive species to help stop its spread in Marathon County . . . (Click the title for details)

Our THANKS to Linda Standiford & Jacky Luetschwager :: 4-H Volunteers Leading Youth in Hands-On Community Service Projects

With 30 4-H clubs in Marathon County, there’s no shortage of ways for youth to get involved in area community service projects as a way to GIVE BACK. Meet two devoted volunteer 4-H leaders: Linda Standiford & Jacky Luetschwager. See how they involved area youth in some great projects to meet the needs of community members in and around Marathon County. (Click the title for details…)

Dirt (Yes, DIRT!) Therapy :: Growing Plants, Growing Ourselves

A new initiative of Marathon County University of Wisconsin–Extension seeks to develop community partnerships that bring the healing power of therapeutic horticulture to people facing addiction, disabilities, illness, or other life circumstances. The seeds of these therapy programs produce much more than just great fruits and veggies! (Click the title for details.)