September 8, 2023 11:20 a.m.

The Oregon State University Extension Service Master Food Preserver program is launching a multi-county hybrid training this fall for new volunteers.

Master Food Preservers support their communities with timely and relevant information about food access, food safety and food preservation. In addition to the required training course, Master Food Preservers complete 20 to 40 hours of service annual through community education, outreach and organizing.

The course includes online lectures, homework assignments, and in-person labs. Topics covered in the training include:

*Food safety in the kitchen

*Science of home food preservation: canning, dehydrating, freezing and pickling

*Research-based methods of food preservation

*Food security and the community food system

*Adult education models and best practices in volunteerism

Training is being offered in Douglas, Lane and six other counties. Apply to be a volunteer at:  https://beav.es/TmH   Applications are due September 18th. An on-line program orientation and question and answer session will be held for all applicants from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on September 19th.