‘Buying Local Meat’ program Thursday

DOVER-FOXCROFT — “Buying Local Meat” will be presented on Thursday, Oct. 6 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Piscataquis County Extension Office at 165 East Main Street. This program is sponsored by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and the Piscataquis Valley Adult Education Cooperative.

Buying meat directly from local farmers is a way to support the local agriculture community, but it can be confusing says Donna Coffin, Extension professor. At this program participants will learn about the different words used to describe how animals are raised and how meat is sold from local farms — natural, grass-fed, organic, dry-aged, pasture raised, free range, humane and prime. Also, how much meat to expect when buying a side or quarter, where to purchase directly from farmers and how to care for the meat until it is used will be discussed.

Pre-registration is required and the course fee includes handout materials. Registration is through the PVAEC at http://pvaec.maineadulted.org or 564-6525.