Locally grown, peak-ripe produce is about to appear at farmers markets, roadside stands and backyards all over the county. This is the window of opportunity to preserve all of nature’s bounty. Preserve summer flavors all year long with strawberries, blueberries, and peaches, which are abundant in our area. Splendid jams and jellies made from the many local varieties of fruits can be made to use later or given as gifts.

You can learn step-by-step tips on preparing and canning jams and jellies at the Polk Extension Office. Canning jams and jellies classes will be on Monday, June 12, one class offered at 2 p.m. and one at 6 p.m. Both classes cover the same material. The workshop will be two hours. This is a hands on class and participants will leave with a finished product.

Both classes will be held at the Polk County Extension Center. There is a small fee for the class. To sign up call the the Extension Office at 828-894-8218.

– article submitted by Jimmi Buell