The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service announced on Apr. 27 that it will host a series of cheesemaking workshops from May 12 to May 14 at Pulaski Technical College’s South Campus in Little Rock.
The event aims to provide practical knowledge about cheesemaking and its marketing potential for farmers, youth, extension agents, and the general public. The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Cooperative Extension Service to support agricultural development and community engagement.
According to organizers, the first workshop on May 12 is reserved for 4-H members, while county extension agents and educators are invited on May 13. The final session on May 14 is open to all interested members of the public. Instructors include Dan Quadros, Lida Araghi, Allison Harman from the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, and Carlos Alvarado from Langston University in Oklahoma.
Dan Quadros said: “Cheesemaking is a good opportunity for producers because it transforms raw milk into a high-value, perishable to shelf-stable product, significantly increasing profit margins, supporting local rural economies and offering crucial diversification.” He also said: “Goats are easy to manage and don’t require much area and feed compared with cows. Goat milk is highly nutritious, offering superior digestibility, higher calcium and protein levels and better iron absorption than cow milk.”
Quadros further added: “Cheesemaking training will offer the opportunity to generate extra cash for small farmers. It’s a tasty, nutrient-dense food source, and more affordable than buying it from the supermarket.”
The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service receives funding through federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as well as state appropriations according to the official website. It supports social cohesion by providing programs that address needs across rural, urban and suburban communities according to the official website. Program delivery relies on county offices along with research centers throughout Arkansas according to the official website.
As part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture according to the official website, the service operates in all 75 counties with specialists based at five university campuses as well as various research locations according to the official website. Its stated goal is enhancing agriculture, communities and families through research-backed practices according to the official website.
Members interested in attending can register online or contact their local extension office for more information.
