photo by: Jim Slosiarek/The Gazette via AP

In this April 20, 2020, file photo, a farmer is silhouetted by the setting sun as a field is planted near Walford, Iowa.

Douglas County residents interested in rural living will soon be able to connect with experts and various resources related to life “out in the country.”

The Rural Living in Douglas County Resource Fair, hosted by K-State Research and Extension Douglas County, is scheduled for April 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2120 Harper St. The free event will include informational booths and speakers sharing insights and practical advice.

“Our Rural Living in Douglas County Resource Fair is a fantastic opportunity for community members to receive expert guidance on various aspects of rural life,” Sharon Ashworth, the horticulture and natural resources agent at K-State Research and Extension Douglas County, said in a press release. “We are eager to connect residents with professionals who can help them enhance their land stewardship efforts.”

Speakers will include Joe Gerken, of K-State Fisheries and Aquaculture, who will speak on pond management; EJ Jamison, Northeast Kansas District forester, who will speak on forest stand management; Luke Berning and Joe Piezuch, of the Kansas Prescribed Burn Association, who will speak on prescribed burning; Tonya Voigt, Douglas County’s director of zoning and codes, who will speak on planning, zoning and code enforcement; Jason Tanking, of Jason Tanking Construction, who will speak on issues related to building a home in the country.

The event is funded by the Douglas County Natural and Cultural Grant Program. The full list of vendors is available at the event’s webpage.