City of Portland’s Urban Growth Bounty series returns with classes on growing, preparing and preserving food

From cheesemaking to beekeeping to urban gardening to food preservation, Urban Growth Bounty provides all the tools you need to do it yourself.

Since its kickoff in 2009, thousands of Portlanders have been able to explore the world of urban homesteading (and to meet others who share their interest) through the Urban Growth Bounty classes. Now entering its fourth year, the 2012 series includes courses on beekeeping, urban livestock, cheesemaking, food preservation, and multiple types of gardening. On-line registration is available at http://www.portlandonline.com/bps/ugb.

“The Urban Growth Bounty classes are a great value and a wonderful way to kickstart your 2012 food growing season,” says Portland Mayor Sam Adams. “There’s always more to learn about how to grow, preserve and eat sustainably on a budget.”
Presented by the City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, 2012 brings back an exciting lineup of expert instructors and an array of classes for all skill levels. Courses will take place from February to July at locations across the city.

A brand new class, Introduction to Food Preservation, Jams, and Jellies debuts in May. Returning also are the most popular classes from the past two years, Cheesemaking with Claudia Lucero and Edible Landscaping with Jen Aron.

For detailed Urban Growth Bounty 2012 descriptions and registration information, visit http://www.portlandonline.com/bps/ugb or e-mail food@portlandoregon.gov.