DRIFTLESS FOLK SCHOOL - 2019 CATALOG
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DRIFTLESS FOLK SCHOOL
2 0 1 9 C ATA LO G
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 1
thank you!
Thank you for picking up this catalog, and for
joining this vibrant community that is the
Driftless Folk School.
Many people heard about the 13-year old Driftless Folk School for the first time last year,
as media outlets around our state picked up on a surge of interest in learning new skills,
meeting new people, and cultivating personal and cultural resilience.
fe at ur ed in
As a long-time resident of the Driftless region, having landed
in a one-room solar cabin here 17 years ago; I couldn’t be
more excited about working with the Folk School and for the
students and instructors. Having worked for organic farmers,
renewable energy projects and small, local businesses, I am
happy to help bring the vision and contributions of the Folk
School to our community.
The Driftless Folk School is a community of life-long
learners cultivating personal and cultural resilience through
meaningful, hands-on educational experiences. We hope this
catalog of more than 50 classes reads as an invitation to be
part of this community in 2019 and into the future.
If you have questions
about enrolling in classes,
please do not hesitate
to reach out to me at
erin@driftlessfolkschool.org.
On behalf of the whole team
of volunteers, instructors,
supporters, and staff:
WELCOME! Erin Ford
Registrar
erin@driftlessfolkschool.org
2 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G
ta b l e o f c o n t e n t s
02 Campus 24 Instructors
03 Collaborations 26 Gratitude
04 Courses 27 Particulars
20 Weekend Events 28 Course Index
22 Community Offerings
cour ses by month
March August
Fruit Tree Grafting — 3/30/2019 Wild Herbs: Wild Food for Health and Nourishment — 8/3/19
Hammered Copper Bowls — 8/3/19
Wild Herbs: Harvesting and Making Herbal Medicine — 8/4/19
April
Easy Gluten-Free Baking — 8/10/19
Hunt for Food — Turkey — 4/5/2019-4/7/2019
The Home Creamery: Cultured Milk, Mozzarella & Feta — 8/10/19
Restorative Pruning of Apple Trees — 4/13/19
Home Canning 101 — 8/17/19
Dishes with Organ Meats & Bone Broth (Turkey/Lamb) — 4/20/19
Introduction to Dyeing Yarn —8/10/2019
Fire Poker: Fall — 8/31/19
May
Spring Edibles — 5/4/19
September
Beginning a New Fruit Orchard — 5/4/19
Hunt for Food — Squirrel — 9/7/19
Fermented Beverages 101 — 5/11/19
Spoon Gathering — 9/13/19-09/15/19
Hammered Copper Bowls — 5/11/19
Hammered Copper Bowls — 9/14/19
Holistic Vineyards — 5/11/19
Making Hard Cider — 9/14/19
Making Mead — 5/11/19
DIY Photovoltaics — 9/21/19
Controlled Burning Equipment Class — 5/18/19
Fermented Beverages 101 — 9/21/19
DIY Photovoltaics — 5/18/19
DIY Bath Soak & Salt Scrubs — 9/28/19
Off-Grid Solar, Battery and Maintenance — 5/25/19
Off-Grid Solar, Battery and Maintenance — 9/28/19
Hunt for Food — Trout — 5/31/2019-6/2/2019
Fermented Vegetables 101: Krauts, Pickles & Condiments — 9/29/19
June October
Basic Soap Making — 6/8/19
7 Plants — 10/5/19
Intermediate Soap Making — 6/9/19
Rabbit Butchering — 10/5/19
Homemade Cinnamon Buns — 6/15/19
DIY Hemp & CBD Bodycare — 10/12/19
DIY Bath Soak & Salt Scrubs — 6/22/19
Homemade Bread Making — 10/12/19
Fermented Vegetables 101: Krauts, Pickles & Condiments — 6/22/19
Hunt for Food — Deer — 10/25/2019-10/27/2019
1st Annual Bodger Ball — 6/28/19-6/30/19
Fire Poker: Early Summer — 6/29/19
November
Dishes with Organ Meats & Bone Broth (Turkey/Lamb) — 11/10/19
July
Hog Butchering — 11/9/19-11/10/19
DIY Natural Deodorant & Lip Balm — 7/13/19
Bitters for Your Health — 11/23/19
Shibori Dyeing — 7/13/19
Herbal Goat Milk Soap Making — 11/29/19
Foil Embossing — 7/14/19
Herbal Infused Oils, Salves, and Lotions — 11/30/19
Batik Weekend — 7/20/19-7/21/19
Fermented Beverages 101 — 7/20/19 December
Sweet Grass Basketry — 12/1/19
Beeswax Candle Making — 12/14/19
Venison Sausage — 12/14/19
campus
Two large projects were worked on this summer and fall at the campus.
Both were done by volunteers that we owe much gratitude to.
A bathhouse with a shower, toilet, sink and a wash basin
has been in our plans for a while, and good progress
on site was finally made this summer. Spearheaded
by Dave Hitz; he, Wayne Ott and Steve Carrow got
the bathhouse closed in before winter, complete with
a metal roof, live edge pine siding, and repurposed
windows supplied by Ken Workowski. A key to the
successful completion was Dave’s supplying the use of
his generator, compressor, and assorted power tools.
Early next spring we will do the interior work and
install fixtures so the plan is to be functional for the
2019 season.
Our plans have been to make the bath house as
The other project was actually repair work to the access
ecologically sustainable as possible. We have used
drive as a result of the repeated flooding of Bear Creek.
wood from local pine and black locust when possible,
Our area had some devastating flooding this past year,
have incorporated an energy heel to the roof framing,
with damage to the access bridge to Bear Creek Farm
and will install extra insulation. One main feature we
and our campus.
plan to incorporate is a seasonal heat storage system.
We will use solar thermal collectors, and store heat Lowell Rheinheimer and his wife Jun did extensive
in a two foot deep sand bed under the floor. That will upgrades to the bridge and approach ways that cross
prevent pipes from freezing, and give us year round Bear Creek. They reinforced the bridge itself, added
functionality. We also plan to use solar PV for the guiderails, and added extensive riprap and beefy
small amount of electricity we will need. headwalls. While the work was done on Bear Creek
Farm, it provides the only access to our campus, so we
are glad he was able to upgrade and repair it so quickly.
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collaborations
Viroqua Food Co+op
The Viroqua Food Co+op (VFC) is a member - owned natural foods grocery located in
Viroqua, Wisconsin that emphasizes organic and local foods and products to promote the
long t erm health of individuals and the environment. When VFC and Driftless Folk School
began working together in 2013 to create educational opportunities around cooking and
sustainably produced food, we quickly realized our shared educational values. Our initial
collaboration has blossomed into a partnership that helps further food and sustainable
agriculture education in our community. The Viroqua Food Co+op offers its owners a $10
discount on designated cooking and sustainable agriculture Driftless Folk School classes in
this catalog.
Valley Stewardship Network
The Valley Stewardship Network (VSN) protects and promotes healthy ecosystems and
provides water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat monitoring in the Kickapoo and
surrounding watersheds. VSN is excited about the partnership with the Driftless Folk School
that began in the Spring and Summer of 2014 with collaborative workshops. VSN shares the
Driftless Folk School’s core principle of modeling community land stewardship inclusive of
fostering nurturing connections of land, people and nature. VSN is pleased to continue this
new series of stewardship workshops in collaboration with DFS. These workshops connect
local landowners, community members and visitors to the land, waters, unique ecological
features and innovative grass b ased agricultural systems of the Driftless Area.
Kickapoo Valley Reser ve
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve (KVR) is an 8,569 acre tract of publicly protected land located
between the villages of La Farge and Ontario in southwestern Wisconsin. The KVR offers
recreational and educational opportunities that promote positive environmental values to
people of all ages. Driftless Folk School and the Kickapoo Valley Reserve share a vision
of lifel ong learning, meaningful education, appreciation and responsibility for the natural
world and healthy, sustainable communities. Because of this, DFS and KVR are excited to
embark on collaborative educational opportunities. Both DFS & KVR are committed to
strengthening educational opportunities and enhancing community in the Driftless area.
Organic Valley
Organic Valley is committed to supporting local non-profit groups that contribute to
communities in ways that go hand in hand with our cooperative’s culture and mission.
Together, we help make The Driftless Region a wonderful place to live!
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march
Fruit Tree Grafting
Instructor: Rikardo Jahnke
Come learn the magic of fruit tree grafting! With this versatile skill you will be
able to make your own apple trees at a fraction of the cost of purchasing them,
and have the tools to clone any apple tree you happen to fancy. In the class we will
discuss and demonstrate whip-and-tongue and cleft grafting in detail. The basics
of bridge grafting, bud grafting, and top working older trees will be covered. The
care and protection of young trees, selection of rootstocks, sources of grafting
scionwood and general apple orcharding will also be discussed. Each participant
will have the opportunity to graft three apple trees to take home. (Additional
rootstock and scionwood will be available for purchase.)
Date: 3/30/2019
Registration Deadline: 3/23/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Gays Mills, WI
april
Restorative Pruning of Apple Trees
Instructor: Lowell Rheinheimer
Old apple trees are often severely overgrown and structurally
compromised. Light penetration to the interior of the tree is
especially important and the natural tendency of apple trees to
continually grow up and out seeking light accelerates their decline
by shading out and killing interior limbs. Pruning stimulates a
rejuvenation process in apple trees and shifts them from over
maturity and stagnation to youthful regrowth. Pruning also
strengthens trees by reducing the stress of gravity on long limbs.
Basic “rules” like taking out limbs that grow down or back toward
the center, and other guidelines will be explored during this class.
This class will consist of a demonstration of pruning one or more
trees. Participants will have an opportunity to practice under the
guidance of the instructor.
Date: 4/13/2019
Registration Deadline: 4/6/2019
Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $0
Location: Viroqua, WI
• LIVE MUSIC • FILM • THEATRE •
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for schedule &
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116 S. MAIN ST. | VIROQUA, WI
608-606-2340
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april
Delicious Healing Dishes with Organ Meats & Bone Broth (Turkey/Lamb)
Instructor: Laura Poe
Liver, heart, bones and other organ meats can be easy to prepare and delicious for the whole family to enjoy! This class is perfect for
those who are interested in eating organ meats for their superior nutritional value, but are unsure about preparation, and even taste.
Additionally, bone broth is not only warming and comforting, but also offers an incredible amount of nutrition. Minerals, vitamins, amino
acids, and collagen are available in these broths, helping support the immune system, digestion, bone and tissue health.
Date: 4/20/2019
Registration Deadline: 4/13/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30 pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
may
Spring Wild Edibles
Instructor: Nicholas Wazee Gale
Foraging is a great way to move beyond mere observation into participation in the Natural World.
This course is designed to give the student first hand experience and knowledge with which
to identify, collect, prepare and eat a variety of these wonderful plants of spring. Greens and
blooms will be our primary focus with some roots, shoots and buds also being covered.
Date: 5/4/2019
Registration Deadline: 4/27/2019
Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $85 / Material Fee: $0
Location: La Farge, WI
Hammered Copper Bowls Holistic Vineyards
Instructor: Martha Buche Instructor: Ann Ralles
Shape a flat copper disk into a shallow Planting a vineyard in the Upper Midwest
vessel using fire and stones, just as the can seem like holding out the sweet feed
indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes for the four horses of the apocalypse!
crafted them for centuries. Work the Come and share instructor Ann’s journey
metal in the most low-tech way of all! into the trials and joys of grape growing
Experience the magic of plucking the in the Upper Midwest without chemicals.
glowing red metal straight from the See what has worked (some) and not
fire and shaping it with the strength worked (a lot). In this class, discussion
of your own hands.” Please note will include trellising, pruning, canopy
that this activity involves tools, hot, management, fungal, weed and pest
sometimes sharp, metal and work with control. The hallmarks of the growing
fire. It is possible to be injured in these season will also be covered. This class is
activities if care is not taken. Persons appropriate for the small hobby vineyard.
wanting to be involved must be willing
Date: 5/11/2019
to take these risks and be responsible
Registration Deadline: 5/4/2019
for themselves.
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Date: 5/11/2019 Class Fee: $45
Registration Deadline: 5/4/2019 Material Fee: $0
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm Location: Westby, WI
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
Location: La Farge, WI
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may
Off-Grid Solar, Battery and DIY Photovoltaics
Maintenance Instructor: Jon Passi
Instructor: Jon Passi
Are you curious about alternative energy or photovoltaics and want to know
Are you interested in going off-grid, with batteries more? Would you like to put solar panels on your house or property? Are you
and solar panels for power? Then, this class is for curious about conserving energy, and the costs of alternatives? This course will
you. We will discuss types of batteries, how to give you practical, real-w orld, and background information on solar panels, solar
connect and maintain them, and other elements electricity, and various PV systems. Each class participant models their own
necessary for setting up off-grid solar, including solar project, and collects all the information they need to finance, construct, or
rack types, roof mounts, solar panels, charge manage their own solar project. The class comes with a take- home DIY manual
controllers, off-grid inverters, and wiring. Please that can be used with any solar setu p, and also includes lists of resources. There
bring a pen and notebook, and an off-grid project will be a tour of existing working systems, installation basics for roofs and racks,
you would like to set up. Comes with a tour of and a means for estimating costs of parts and installations on all systems. Class
several off-grid cabins and houses. includes a fifty-page DIY PV booklet.
Date: 5/25/2019 Date: 5/18/2019
Registration Deadline: 5/18/2019 Registration Deadline: 5/11/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $0 Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI Location: Viroqua, WI
Fermented Beverages 101: Beginning an Orchard
Kombucha, Kefir, Sodas and Tonics Instructor: Rikardo Jahnke
Instructor: Laura Poe
Join long-time orchardist Rikardo Jahnke in this
Fermented beverages are a part of every interactive class to learn how to start your own
traditional diet, both for health benefits and orchard. Elements of the class will be the planning
as a way to preserve food. In this class, we will stage (including site selection, varieties and tree
learn how to make (non-alcoholic) fermented size), the planting year (planting schemes and
beverages like kombucha, kvass, kefir, shrub, soil preparation), early orchard protection, early
jun, and lacto-fermented ginger ale. Health training, tools and materials and more. Plenty of
benefits of ferments and how to incorporate room will be given for questions, and students are
them into your diet will also be discussed. encouraged to cater the experience to their specific
This class is great for all skill levels who want interests in starting their own fruit orchard. A tour
to learn more about fermenting their own of Eve’s Orchard will flush out the narrative.
beverages at home!
Date: 5/04/2019
Date: 5/11/2019 Registration Deadline: 4/27/2019
Registration Deadline: 5/04/2019 Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $0
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15 Location: Gays Mills, WI
Location: Viroqua, WI
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may
Controlled Burning Equipment Class Making Mead
Instructor: Mike Fallon Instructor: Bjorn Bergman
See small-scale firefighting equipment through a fun and engaging Mead (honey wine) is a traditional Norwegian alcoholic beverage
demonstration. Firefighter Mike Fallon will discuss the essential made by mixing water, honey, and yeast and allowing them to
role prescribed fire plays in improving our local environment while ferment. In this class, learn the art and science of making mead at
making the public safer. Mike will demystify fire for children and home. Topics covered include: choosing honey, sanitation, different
adults. Fire is a destructive force and children are rightly taught ways to ferment mead, monitoring fermentation, bottling, and
to fear and respect it. When restoring and rehabilitating fire- tasting mead. Participants will leave class with a small batch of
dependent landscapes, however, fire is an important ally. mead to ferment at home.
Date: 5/18/2019 Date: 5/11/19
Registration Deadline: 5/11/2019 Registration Deadline: 5/11/2019
Time: 9am - 1pm Time: 1-4:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Materials Fee: $0 Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
Location: La Farge, WI Location: La Farge, WI
june
Fermented Vegetables 101: Krauts, Pickles, and Condiments
Instructor: Laura Poe
In this class you will learn how to ferment various vegetables, making
sauerkraut, pickles, and lacto-fermented condiments. We will also go over
the health benefits of ferments and how to incorporate them into your
daily life.
Date: 6/22/2019
Registration Deadline: 6/15/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
Basic Soapmaking Intermediate Soapmaking
Instructor: Kristen Martinek Instructor: Kristen Martinek
Learn the basics of crafting your Build upon your basic soap skills
own vegetable-based soap in this and discover how to create more
hands-on course that will yield a complex soaps. In this intermediate
batch of soap for each student to course, Kristen will teach you how
take home {each batch equates to to add colors, layers and create
roughly 6-8 bars}. Basic essential various designs/textures in your final
oils are provided but students are product. Basic essential oils, food-
encouraged to bring their own from based additives & natural colorants
home if they desire specific scents. are provided, however students are
encouraged to bring their own if they
Date: 6/08/2019
desire anything specific.
Registration Deadline: 6/1/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm Date: 6/9/2019
Class Fee: $45 Registration Deadline: 6/2/2019
Material Fee: $20 Time: 9am - 12:30 pm
Location: Viroqua, WI Class Fee: $45
Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI
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june
Homemade Cinnamon Buns
Instructor: Laura Wiesmann Hrubes
Be a hit with your family, at holiday gatherings or waking them up to the aroma of
cinnamon and brown butter from these easy, mouth-watering rolls. Learn the basic
techniques of creating this sweet dough, from mixing, kneading and rolling, to hand-
shaping your rolls, and making the delicious, creamy frosting from scratch.
Date: 6/15/2019
Registration Deadline: 6/8/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $10
Location: Viroqua, WI
DIY Bath Soak & Salt Scrubs
Instructor: Erin Murdock
609 North Main Street
In this class we will explore the history and healing properties Viroqua, WI
of soaking in a salty and herbal tub or using a salty herbal scrub! Open Daily 7am-9pm
We will blend our own formulas using a variety of herbs, flowers,
essential and carrier oils plus clay while discussing the unique
qualities/ properties they each hold. Student will go home with a offering over 1,000
bath soak and scrub of their own. Please bring own containers to
fill if so inclined. local products from over
Date: 6/22/2019 200 local food producers
Registration Deadline: 6/15/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Maple Valley Cooperative
Class Fee: $45
Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
Fire Poker: Early Summer
Instructor: Kent Knapp Driftless Organics
Join the Knapp family of Milwaukee Blacksmith for our Blacksmithing Ridgeland Harvest
101 class, where students will learn basic blacksmithing techniques
and process. You will learn about how the forge works, how to
use tools like the hammer, anvil and tongs, twisting and bending
techniques and more. Students will create a fire poker to take home!
Date: 6/29/2019
Registration Deadline: 6/22/2019
Time: 9am - 4pm (2-hr increments)
Class Fee: $45
To see what’s on the menu for breakfast,
Material Fee: $20
lunch or dinner, visit: www.viroquafood.coop
Location: Viroqua, WI
food rooted in
10 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gperfect weekend in the driftless — spring
In the Midwest, winter can seem like forever. When The area is full of local shops and eateries, with plenty of beautiful
artisan creations and delicious meals. The Driftless Cafe for
you’re lucky enough to live in a beautiful wilderness
example, creates local menus inspired by the ingredients around
like the Driftless, you don’t mind as much. us. Try a trout entree or morel appetizer for a truly decadent
experience.
But there’s something timeless and exciting about the first slivers
of Spring, peaking through the long cloak of winter. Sweet sap If you’re more drawn to the outdoors, now is a perfect time for
starts flowing, folks start venturing out more and the last chilly hiking, hunting turkeys or joining a large community of trout
remnants of the season before melt away. fishers. The Driftless Angler is the local fly shop in Viroqua, and
they everything you need including guides, to help you not only
Early on you can join in preparing local orchards for the season
have fun but successful excursion!
through pruning and grafting. Our area is home to some of the
Midwest’s historically iconic, stunning orchards. Learn about Whatever calls to you, the Driftless will answer. So shake
growing your own fruit trees and about the delicate art of pruning off the last bit of winter from your boots, and join us in
at one of our classes. the budding trees and sunlight.
- Erin Ford
Rolling through the glorious hills and valleys of the Driftless,
you’ll see the bright blue lines zig zagging through the trees and
steel buckets hang from wooden spouts; as the entire area begins
syruping. Families spend days in the woods gathering and boiling
sap, rosy cheeked and sharing a joyful tradition. There’s nothing
better than freshly cooked syrup on your plate!
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 11july
Fermented Beverages 101: Shibori Dyeing
Kombucha, Kefir, Sodas Instructor: Martha Buche
and Tonics
Shibori is a Japanese technique
Instructor: Laura Poe of fabric folding and binding that
Fermented beverages are a part makes repetitive patterns on fabric
of every traditional diet, both when used with Indigo dyeing. We
for health benefits and as a way will use clips, tubes, and other
to preserve food. In this class, items to manipulate our cloths
we will learn how to make (non- then dye them in vats of Indigo
alcoholic) fermented beverages like dye. This will be a fun and kind of
kombucha, kvass, kefir, shrub, jun, DIY Natural Deodorant & Lip Balm addictive day when we explore the
and lacto-fermented ginger ale. Instructor: Kristen Martinek magical oxygen reactive properties
Health benefits of ferments and of Indigo and the many possibili-
Now-a-days conventional body care products are made
how to incorporate them into your ties of Shibori folding. Students
with an exhausting list of harsh chemicals. Thankfully
diet will also be discussed. This class should bring a white 100% cotton
there are simple, healthy alternatives you can make
is great for all skill levels who want twin-sized flat sheet that will be
right from home. In this class, we will learn how to make
to learn more about fermenting divided into multiple batiks. Items
homemade deodorant, beeswaxed lip balms & herbal
their own beverages at home! like napkins, flour sack towels,
body scrubs with all-natural ingredients. Each student
handkerchiefs, and other all white
Date: 7/20/2019 crafts their own deodorant, lip balm & body scrub to take
cotton dyeable items. A few items
Registration Deadline: 7/13/2019 home. Join us in learning how to nourish your skin the
for extra dyeing will be available
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm natural way!
for purchase at the class. Students
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Date: 7/13/2019 will also need to bring a long-
Location: Viroqua, WI
Registration Deadline: 7/6/2019 cuffed pair of thick household
Class Time: 9am to 12:30pm chore gloves.
Class Fee: $45
Date: 7/13/2019
Material Fee: $15
Registration Deadline: 7/6/2019
Location: La Farge, WI
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $20
Location: La Farge, WI
Foil Embossing
Instructor: Martha Buche
ewetopia
Let the warm, rich quality of copper lead you to the creation of an
image of enduring beauty. Design and make your own copper foil
relief image using simple tools and minimal sculpting techniques.
Choose your own image or use one of the patterns provided then
bring your embossing to life through the techniques of chasing and
repoussé. The use of chemical patinas can add striking levels of
color and depth to your unique sculpture for a dramatic effect.
Date: 7/14/2019
Registration Deadline: 7/7/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI
St. Brigid’s
Meadows
Fa r m i n g G r a c e f u l l y
Pasture Raised Beef, Pork,
Chicken, Eggs, Cheese
12 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gaugust
Wild Herbs: Wild Food for Health and Nourishment Easy Gluten-Free Baking
Instructor: Linda Conroy Instructor: Laura Wiesmann Hrubes
Join veteran herbalist Linda Conroy for this fun and inspiring day. We will learn to identify Gluten-free lifestyles are needed for many
plants around us that can help promote health and build resiliency. We will learn about health reasons, from Celiac disease to
the plants as well as ingest them. Everyone will leave inspired, with a nourishing herbal allergies. Learn simple easy, luscious and
vinegar and recipes to get them started at home! Lunch will include wild plants that we nutritious baking recipes to bring your gluten-
gather together. free kitchen to the next level. Attendees will
have tasty treats to bring home to share!
Date: 8/3/2019
Registration Deadline: 7/27/2019 Date: 8/10/2019
Class Time: 9am to 4:30pm Registration Deadline: 8/3/2019
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20 Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Location: La Farge, WI Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
Location: La Farge, WI
Wild Herbs: Harvesting and Making Herbal Medicine
Instructor: Linda Conroy
Join veteran herbalist Linda Conroy for this fun, hands-on day of
plant medicine. Learn to work with the plants that grow around
us, first learning about their healing qualities, and then exploring
ways to transform them to promote health and provide healing.
The day will be spent making preparations for both topical as well
as internal consumption. Everyone will leave with a medicine kit to
begin using at home!
Date: 8/4/2019 Home Canning 101
Registration Deadline: 7/28/2019 Instructor: Bjorn Bergman
Class Time: 9am to 4:30pm
What should you do with the bounty of strawberries and tomatoes
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20
from your garden? Can them! Learn the art and science of preserving
Location: La Farge, WI
the harvest using a boiling-water canner. Participants make canned
fruit jam, pickles and salsa in this full day class. Topics include:
choosing recipes, necessary equipment, the process of canning, and
more. Participants will go home with jars of items made in class.
Come with an appetite to preserve the season’s bounty.
Date: 8/17/2019
Registration Deadline: 8/10/2019
Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI
Hammered Copper Bowls
The Home Creamery:
Instructor: Martha Buche
Cultured Milk, Mozzarella, and Feta
Instructor: Linda Conroy Shape a flat copper disk into a shallow vessel using fire and stones,
just as the indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes crafted them for
Making cheese in your own kitchen is fun and easy. Discover centuries. Work the metal in the most low-tech way of all! Experience
how to create soft, spreadable cream cheese, mozzarella the magic of plucking the glowing red metal straight from the fire
(traditionally stretched), feta, and paneer. Learn about and shaping it with the strength of your own hands. Please note this
fermented milk products like yogurt, kefir, and piima and activity involves tools, hot, sometimes sharp, metal and work with
how to transform them into delicious fresh cheese and fire. It is possible to be injured if care is not taken. Persons wanting
cultured butter. Go home with simple instructions, recipes, to be involved must be willing to take these risks and be responsible
a culture to get you started, and samples! for themselves.
Date: 8/10/2019 Date: 8/3/2019
Registration Deadline: 8/03/2019 Registration Deadline: 7/27/2019
Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20 Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
Location: Gays Mills, WI Location: La Farge, WI
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 13perfect weekend in the driftless — summer
What is your favorite thing about summer? The fact for food and medicine. Preserve the bounty of your garden or CSA
with a class on home canning or fermentation. Or make your own
that the sun stays out until 10pm or later? Keeping soap infused with herbs and essential oils.
swimsuits and towels in the car so you are always Now assuming you took note above and packed your swimsuit, on
ready for an impromptu dip? Sleeping under the your way back from the Folk School Campus you’ll have to pay a
stars? Picking and cooking food straight from your visit to the Kickapoo River. Rent a canoe in Ontario and for the
next three hours you’ll gently navigate one of the oldest river
garden, or a farmer’s field? systems in the world. Be sure to get out and enjoy a swim along
Whatever you love most about summer, you are sure to find it in any of the many sandbars you’ll pass. Take out at Bridge 5 and your
abundance in the Driftless. rental company will shuttle you back to your car.
For the perfect summer weekend in the Driftless region, we From there you might want to head back to your campsite and
recommend pitching a tent. Campgrounds in towns like Viroqua call it a night. Wildcat Mountain State Park is a proposed Dark Sky
or La Farge are close to lots of charming small-town action. Or Reserve, known for its fantastic night sky viewing, and neighboring
grab a spot at a county park like Sidie Hollow west of Viroqua or at Kickapoo Valley Reserve regularly hosts stargazing events. Or if
Wildcat State Park north of La Farge. Swing by the Viroqua Food that’s not your thing, there’s surely something happening in the
Co-op to stock up on local goodies, marshmallows, and 6-packs surrounding towns. The Historic Temple Theater in downtown
of local beer (or artisanal kombucha and organic soda). Pitch your Viroqua stages local theater productions as well as acts from
tent and enjoy dinner over the campfire. Now rest up, because around the world. Leo and Leona’s in Bangor hosts musical acts
tomorrow is going to be a busy day! performing blues, Irish folk, country, and everything in between.
If you wake up early you’ll have time for a bike ride and/or a big After waking up for the second morning in a row in the Driftless
breakfast a local cafe. Borgen’s in Westby is a classic small town you’ll notice that you haven’t been bothered by mosquitoes, you
joint while the Kickapoo Café in Viroqua is uber hip. Or simply haven’t checked your email, and you barely scratched the surface
swing by the Viroqua Farmers Market – one of the largest in rural of interesting, tasty things to do. Maybe you’ll have time to get in a
Wisconsin – for fresh baked goods and even fresher produce. round of Disc Golf at the VFW course? Or explore some of the best
mountain biking in the region? Or some of the best trout fishing
By now you are ready to roll up your sleeves and get to know some in the country? Or pop into a local art gallery or area art fair? Too
neighbors at a Saturday morning Driftless Folk School class. Learn much to do! You’ll just have to come back again next summer.
to identify wild plants growing all around you and harvest them
- Simon Stumpf
14 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gaugust september
Fermented Vegetables 101:
Krauts, Pickles, and Condiments
Instructor: Laura Poe
In this class, you will learn how to ferment various vegetables and
make sauerkraut, pickles, and lacto-fermented condiments. We will
also review the health benefits of ferments and how to incorporate
them into your daily life.
Date: 9/29/19
Registration Deadline: 9/22/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
Fermented Beverages 101: Kombucha, Kefir, Sodas
Introduction to Dyeing Yarn and Tonics
Instructor: Kathryn Ashley Wright Instructor: Laura Poe
Learn about dyeing wool without the science and math (...most of Fermented beverages are a part of every traditional diet, both for
the time)! I consider myself an artisan dyer, and play with color like health benefits and as a way to preserve food. In this class, we
a painter. We use heavy metal free acid dyes, which use citric acid or will learn how to make (non-alcoholic) fermented beverages like
white vinegar as the mordant, better for you and the environment. kombucha, kvass, kefir, shrub, jun, and lacto-fermented ginger ale.
Learn about kettle dyeing and hand painting yarns. We will also Health benefits of ferments and how to incorporate them into your
discuss fleece management and cleaning a raw fleece during our diet will also be discussed. This class is great for all skill levels who
down time in the dyeing processes. want to learn more about fermenting their own beverages at home!
Date: 8/10/2019 Date: 9/21/2019
Registration Deadline: 8/3/2019 Registration Deadline: 9/22/2019
Class Time: 1pm - 4pm Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $30 Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: La Farge, WI Location: Viroqua, WI
Making Hard Cider
Fire Poker: Fall Instructor: Bjorn Bergman
Instructor: Kent Knapp Do you dream of sipping a cool, crisp, and refreshing homemade hard
cider with your friends and loved ones? Take this class and learn the
Join the Knapp family of Milwaukee Blacksmith for our Blacksmithing
art & science of making hard cider at home. Topics include: choosing
101 class, where students will learn basic blacksmithing techniques
apples, pressing apples, sanitation, different ways to ferment apple
and process. You will learn about how the forge works, how to
juice, monitoring fermentation, bottling, and tasting. Participants
use tools like the hammer, anvil and tongs, twisting and bending
will leave class with a small batch of cider to ferment at home.
techniques and more. Students will create a fire poker to take home!
Date: 9/21/2019
Date: 8/31/2019
Registration Deadline: 9/14/2019
Registration Deadline: 8/24/2019
Time: 1 - 4:30pm
Time: 9am - 4pm (2-hr increments)
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI
Location: Viroqua, WI
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 15september
Off-Grid Solar, Battery and DIY Photovoltaics
Maintenance Instructor: Jon Passi
Instructor: Jon Passi
Are you curious about alternative energy or photovoltaics and want to know
Are you interested in going off-grid, with batteries more? Would you like to put solar panels on your house or property? Are you
and solar panels for power? Then, this class is for curious about conserving energy, and the costs of alternatives? This course
you. We will discuss types of batteries, how to will give you practical, real-w orld, and background information on solar
connect and maintain them, and other elements panels, solar electricity, and various PV systems. Each class participant
necessary for setting up off-grid solar, including models their own solar project, and collects all the information they need to
rack types, roof mounts, solar panels, charge finance, construct, or manage their own solar project. The class comes with
controllers, off-grid inverters, and wiring. Please a take- home DIY manual that can be used with any solar setu p, and also
bring a pen and notebook, and an off-grid project includes lists of resources. There will be a tour of existing working systems,
you would like to set up. Comes with a tour of installation basics for roofs and racks, and a means for estimating costs of
several off-grid cabins and houses. parts and installations on all systems. Class includes a fifty-page DIY PV
Date: 9/28/2019 booklet.
Registration Deadline: 9/21/2019 Date: 9/21/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm Registration Deadline: 9/14/2019
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $0 Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Location: Viroqua, WI Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20
Location: Viroqua, WI
Hammered Copper Bowls
Instructor: Martha Buche
Shape a flat copper disk into a shallow vessel using fire and stones, just
as the indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes crafted them for centuries.
Work the metal in the most low-tech way of all! Experience the magic of
plucking the glowing red metal straight from the fire and shaping it with the
strength of your own hands.” Please note that this activity involves tools,
hot, sometimes sharp, metal and work with fire. It is possible to be injured
in these activities if care is not taken. Persons wanting to be involved must
be willing to take these risks and be responsible for themselves.
Date: 9/14/2019
Hunt for Food: SQUIRREL Registration Deadline: 9/7/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Instructor: John Motoviloff Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $25
This one-day course will quickly walk novice Location: La Farge, WI
adults through biology, regulations, and hunting
techniques for these common but delicious game
anaimals so common in the Driftless area. The
good news is that squirrel hunting is fun and DIY Bath Soak & Salt Scrubs
easy with a high success rate and liberal season-
-and the meat is both tender and flavorful when
Instructor: Erin Murdock
prepared properly. After becoming proficient with In this class we will explore the history and healing properties of soaking
shotguns or 22s, students will head to woods and in a salty and herbal tub or using a salty herbal scrub! We will blend our
try their luck--and hopefully come home with the own formulas using a variety of herbs, flowers, essential and carrier oils
makings for a fine meal or two! plus clay while discussing the unique qualities/ properties they each hold.
Student will go home with a bath soak and scrub of their own. Please bring
Date: 9/7/2019
own containers to fill if so inclined.
Registration Deadline: 9/1/2019
Time: 9am - 4:30pm Date: 9/28/2019
Class Fee: FREE Registration Deadline: 9/21/2019
Location: La Farge, WI Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
16 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gperfect weekend in the driftless — fall
Fall has always been my favorite season and there’s Saturday also means farmers markets, and Viroqua’s downtown
offering will not disappoint. From fresh veggies to locally pastured
no better place to experience its magic than the
meats and even Amish woodcrafts, the market is a gem. Grab
Driftless region of SW Wisconsin. Summer’s heat has fixins for lunch or stop by the nationally renowned Driftless Cafe,
been replaced by cool, crisp air. The changing leaves where Chef Luke Zahm and crew will wow you with creative dishes
and final prairie blooms share a kaleidoscopic burst of that showcase the region’s finest farms.
color before winter’s austerity sets in. From the fields For hunter’s like myself a fall trip to the Driftless provides ample
to the forests, nature’s bounty is on full display. opportunity to pursue one of the big whitetails that haunt the
coulees or the wild turkeys that are more often heard than seen
I’m obsessed with food. Growing, foraging, hunting, harvesting, (at least within range). The Driftless Folk School offers a variety of
preserving, cooking, and of course eating - these are a few of classes to help you make the most of the venison you harvest. And
my favorite things. Practically every one of the ridges and valleys the Cooking with Organ Meats class will help you make delicious
that define this region holds an opportunity to take part in the use of parts of the deer that are often discarded without a second
fun of food. though.
Start your weekend off with dinner at the Rooted Spoon in Before the weekend is over, be sure to explore the many orchards
Viroqua. Every Friday night locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy around Gays Mills. Fresh apples and apple cider are of course a
a variety of tacos made with locally sourced ingredients as well must, but did you know there’s such a thing as apple cider donuts?
as some of tastiest craft cocktails around. Dance off your dinner There is. And they are delicious. If you time your visit right, you can
at the Driftless Bookstore where musical acts from near and far catch the Annual Apple Festival (last full weekend in Sept.) in the
get the boots stomping several nights a week from spring to fall. village of Gays Mills. Parades, crafts, music, and of course food!
After the festivities, head back to your cabin at the Kickapoo all in honor of the Driftless Region’s favorite fruit. A fitting end to
Valley Guest Ranch and finish your evening off with a sweet treat. a food-ful weekend.
Cowboy David turns out a variety of delicious baked goods; the - Wayde Lawler
cashew carrot ginger cake is my personal favorite. The cozy cabins
are nestled in a valley right next to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve,
where an early Saturday walk on the extensive network of trails
will lead you to some of the best views of fall colors in the area.
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 17october
Rabbit Butchering and Sausage Making
Instructor: Ryan Wagner
This class will give students the opportunity to butcher a domesticated rabbit and process it into a French-style sausage. Each
participant will get a rabbit (most likely previously slaughtered but with hide attached) and break the animal down, grind and mix
it with spices to make cased or loose sausage. Students leave with their prepared sausage, hide, carcass and recipe for future use.
Date: 10/5/2019
Registration Deadline: 9/29/2019
Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $10
Location: La Farge, WI
Homemade Bread Making
Instructor: Laura Wiesmann Hrubes
As the seasons change and weather becomes chillier, what is better than filling your
home with the scent of freshly baked breads? Rustic loaves ready to slather with herbed
butter or dip into hearty soups; these and more are easy to make and will become a
staple in your home. Attendees will leave with their own loaf to share — or not!
Date: 10/12/2019
1/23/2018 https://p.widencdn.net/jkkxgf/OV_tag_4clr_blue.ai
Registration Deadline: 10/5/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $10
Location: Viroqua, WI
DIY Hemp & CBD Bodycare
Instructor: Erin Murdock
Hemp and all of her glory is a popular ingredient in a wide variety of body care
products on retail shelves everywhere. In this class we will discuss the benefits
of this very diverse and hardy plant while learning how to make a variety of body
care products, potentially tailored to individual needs. Students will also have
the opportunity to gather a few ingredients to experiment with at home. Please
bring own containers to fill if so inclined.
Date: 10/12/2019
Registration Deadline: 10/5/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
7 Plants and a Journey
Instructor: Tracy Mangold
https://p.widencdn.net/jkkxgf/OV_tag_4clr_blue.ai 1/1
In this class, we will learn how to learn about plants, focusing on a few local
friends. We will get to know them intimately — discussing energetics, constituents,
actions, formulation, medicine-making and more. We will go on a journey to meet
a plant and learn ways to gain insight directly from our plant allies.
Date: 10/5/2019
Registration Deadline: 9/29/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
18 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gnovember
Herbal Goat Milk Soap Making
Instructor: Linda Conroy
Join Herbalist Linda Conroy for this fun day of soap making. We will start out learning
the basics and then dive into a hands-on experience, making soap that you will take
home. We will make soap with herbs from the garden, as well as fresh goat’s milk.
We will make both hot and cold process soap, as well as try our hand at hand milling
and felting soap. Participants will go home with soap made in class, along with
instructions and recipes for making soap at home. All supplies provided. For adults
and youth (ages 8 years and up with an adult). Includes instruction on hot and cold
process soap making, as well as hand milling and felting.
Date: 11/29/2019
Registration Deadline: 11/22/2019
Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $25
Location: Gays Mills, WI
Herbal Infused Oils, Salves, Delicious Healing Dishes with Organ Meats & Bone Broth
and Lotions Instructor: Laura Poe
Instructor: Linda Conroy
Liver, heart, bones and other organ meats can be easy to prepare and delicious for the whole
Join herbalist Linda Conroy as she family to enjoy! This class is perfect for those who are interested in eating organ meats for their
leads participants through the superior nutritional value, but are unsure about preparation, and even taste. Additionally, bone
process of making oils, salves and broth is not only warming and comforting, but also offers an incredible amount of nutrition.
lotions. The focus will be on creating Minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and collagen are available in these broths, helping support the
remedies from herbs in the garden. immune system, digestion, bone and tissue health.
Participants will leave with a list
Date: 11/16/2019
of healing herbs, recipes and the
Registration Deadline: 11/09/2019
three preparations (oils, salves and
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
lotions) made in this class. Suitable
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
for ages 12+
Location: Viroqua, WI
Date: 11/30/2019
Registration Deadline: 11/23/2019
Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $20 Hog Butchering
Location: Viroqua, WI Instructor: Ryan Wagner
Students will receive a hands-on experience
of butchering a hog. Saturday will consist of
discharging a live organic pig, eviscerating the
Bitters for Your Health animal, and preparing the hog for hanging & cooling.
Instructor: Tracy Mangold The following day will be a full day of breaking the
The way a plant tastes can tell us hog into primal parts, cutting individual pork chops,
some of the ways it will interact with steaks, pork belly and hocks. The pig from the
and have effect upon our bodies. We previous day will be used as and halved organic hogs.
will discuss the the tastes of herbs Participants will partner in groups of 2 per half hog
and what it means. Then focus on for the breakdown. Students will leave with the meat
the taste of bitters and the their they cut and break down (~35lbs), bones for broth and
effect upon our liver, digestion, recipes for further processing. ***Time permitting,
nervous system and much more. there will be options for making loose Italian and
Students will have the opportunity breakfast sausage from scrap meat***
to craft their own bitter remedy. Date: 11/9/2018 - 11/10/2019
Date: 11/23/2019 Registration Deadline: 11/2/2019
Registration Deadline: 11/16/2019 Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm (Sat) &
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm 9am - 4:30pm (Sun)
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15 Class Fee: $120 / Material Fee: $140
Location: Viroqua, WI Location: La Farge, WI
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 19december
Sweet Grass Basketry
Instructor: Linda Conroy
Learn to make a coiled basket using one of the sweetest smelling
plants – sweetgrass. Spend a fun day exploring the creative
possibilities of this ancient art form as you design and complete
your basket. Linda will guide and instruct you on how to start and
sew a basket. You will learn various stitching techniques, as well
as approaches to incorporating other materials into the design of
coiled baskets. This class is for students of all levels and great for
those who like working with natural materials. Bring a small pair
of sharp scissors, thimble, and reading glasses, if needed for close
Venison Sausage & Curing work; other supplies provided.
Instructor: Ryan Wagner Date: 12/1/2019
Students will learn how to take scrap venison meat, add pork, Registration Deadline: 11/24/2019
seasoning, cure, culture and turn it into delicious, shelf-stable Class Time: 9am - 4:30pm
dry-cured sausages. The art of dry-curing meat has been around Class Fee: $75 / Material Fee: $25
for millennia and has had a recent resurgence. This class will Location: La Farge, WI
teach each participant that with careful planning and execution,
they too can make dry-cured meats in their own home. We will
cover equipment needed, ingredients, and clear steps for carrying
out the process. Due to the length of time to make a dry-cured
product, the class will not complete the process that day. Instead,
participants will make the sausages and the instructor will
ferment and dry the sausages for them for either pick-up or mail
delivery once they are complete. Each student will leave with
basic directions for dry-curing sausage and a list of resources for
continuing their studies at home.
Date: 12/14/2019
Registration Deadline: 12/7/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $40
Location: La Farge, WI
Beeswax Candle Making
Instructor: Martha Buche
Make simple, hand-dipped beeswax
tapers, then try your hand at some
more complicated variations.
Spend a few meditative hours
making several candles, and learn
the traditions and meanings of
candles as used in many seasonal
celebrations.
Date: 12/14/2019
Registration Deadline: 12/7/2019
Class Time: 9am - 12:30pm
Class Fee: $45 / Material Fee: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
20 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gperfect weekend in the driftless — winter
Once the leaves are all gone and the snow has fallen, heat through the winter, preparing to start a new generation
come spring.
a whole new landscape appears. Both the green, tree-
clad hills of summer and fall foliage are fun to tour Let’s face it, there is not as much human activity going on outdoors
in the winter here. No canoeing, fly fishing, gardening, music
and take in, but they hide the actual land. The true festivals, baseball, and so on. The Folk School does not yet have a
shape and musculature of the old geology is laid bare busy winter schedule, mostly prepping for the next year of classes.
in winter. One can now see the rock faces, abandoned But there are still things to be done outdoors here, and places to
cabins, and old logging roads winding up the sides of do them. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are both fun, and
the hills that were invisible the rest of the year. there are handy public locations to get outside and clear the lungs.
In our general area in the driftless, there are designated winter
A small, year-round trout stream stands out starkly against the
trails at Wildcat Mountain State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve,
snow, running quickly enough that it never freezes. Wild turkeys
and Wyalusing State Park. The state parks also have scheduled
find it harder to hide, wandering out into the open pastures and
candle lit night skiing dates, which is a whole other experience.
fields, gleaning and lolling around, somehow knowing hunting
season is months away. This is Wisconsin! It gets cold here! Enjoy each season for what
it is. Connecting with nature means connecting with the whole
The trees are resting, waiting for the signal to restart harvesting
cycle. They all have beauty and some lesson to be absorbed.
sunlight. The animals — from the largest buck on down to the
smallest junco — amazingly find food and hang on to their body - Steve Carrow
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 21weekend events
Hunt for Food — DEER
Lots of food ways and self-sufficiency skills are
packed into this short, FREE weekend course!
It’s designed for adults and families interested in
learning how to harvest one of Wisconsin great
natural resources — the wild, white-tailed deer.
Our Friday evening classroom session begins
with a wild game potluck followed by primers on
regulations, biology, and hunting strategy. Special
attention will be paid to the vital role conservation
plays in hunting. On Saturday morning, students
meet their mentors and practice shooting deer rifles
under the supervision of certified hunter safety
instructors. Accompanied by their mentors, students
go into the woods Saturday afternoon and Sunday
morning to hunt deer on local properties. The
National Wild Turkey Federation presents: group will then gather Sunday afternoon to butcher
communally — traditional deer camp style — and
Hunt for Food — TURKEY divide the fresh meat. Firearms, ammunition, blaze
orange, butchering supplies, food, and lodging for
Ready to take your local food experience to the next the weekend are provided courtesy of conservation
level? Interested in hunting, but lack field experience? partners: National Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants
Then, Hunt for Food, Turkey, offered at Westby Rod and Forever, and WDNR.
Gun Club April 5-7, might be just right for you! Lodging is group style (sleeping bags and cots
inside the club building) or tenting on club grounds.
Wisconsin’s woods provide a wide variety of delicious, local Students must be 18 years or older, or in the
and sustainable foods. HUNT FOR FOOD — TURKEY teaches company of a participating adult. Hunter education
you the skills needed to harvest a wild turkey. Designed for certification is encouraged — but not required.
adults, this course aims to show how hunting is directly Contact instructor for details. Students should bring
connected to conservation and healthy living — it’s easy, footwear and clothing appropriate for the weather.
fun, and inclusive. Students will learn from experienced
Instructor: John Motoviloff
hunters and have the opportunity to ask questions. Students
will also learn how to obtain Hunter Safety certification 608-410-0041 / jmotoviloff@nwtf.net
(certification is not required to participate). Date: 10/25/19 - 10/27/19
Registration Deadline: 10/18/2019
Class begins Friday evening with a wild game potluck and an Class Time: Friday (5 pm - 9 pm), Saturday (8 am - dark),
overview of biology and regulations. Shooting and scouting Sunday (check with mentor)
are taught Saturday morning, followed by a hands-on hunting Location: Westby
experience with a seasoned mentor Saturday afternoon and
Sunday. Hunting equipment and firearms are provided and
no license is necessary. HUNT FOR FOOD, TURKEY is offered
free of charge courtesy of the Wisconsin DNR and National
Wild Turkey Federation.
Instructor: John Motoviloff, National Wild Turkey Federation
608-410-0041 / jmotoviloff@nwtf.net
Date: 4/05/19 - 4/07/19
Registration Deadline: 3/29/2019
Class Time: Friday (5pm - 9pm), Saturday (8am - dark),
Sunday (check with mentor)
Location: Westby
Register ASAP as this class fills up quickly!
22 S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R Gweekend events
Hunt for Food — TROUT BATIK WEEKEND
Wisconsin waters are teeming with hungry fish. Learn how Batik is a resist method of fabric decoration. In
to prepare one you’ve just landed for a tasty, healthy meal, this weekend class we will learn to use wax tools
harvested from waters close to home. called tjantings to define our designs and then dye
the fabric with multiple dye colors.
At this weekend class, we’ll start at the school to learn more
about the waters in this area, the species that live in them and The dyes need at least 12 hours to cure, and we will
how to access them. You will get dryland practice in how to rinse them out on the second day. We will also make
use a spinning rod and how to select baits and lures before we t shirts with traditional wax stamps called tjaps and
head to the water. You’ll also get a taste of the fine art of fly let them cure overnight. Our second day of class will
fishing. Then, we’ll head for the streams! Finally, you’ll learn be spent rinsing and removing the wax and dye from
how to cook the catch fish at our potluck meal on Saturday. our fabrics. Students should bring a white 100%
Staff from the Department of Natural Resources, National Wild cotton twin-sized flat sheet that will be divided into
Turkey Federation, and other partners and volunteers will lead multiple batiks. Students will also need to bring a
this course. long-cuffed pair of thick household chore gloves.
The Farm to Fork concept suggests a parallel Pond to Plate Instructor: Martha Buche
companion, whether that “pond” is a stream or a lake — Great, Date: 7/20/19 - 7/21/19
large or small. As far as “food miles” are concerned, most Registration Deadline: 7/13/2019
Wisconsinites live within 50 miles of fishable waters offering Class Time: Saturday (9am - 12:30pm) &
many places to catch a healthy and delicious dinner, with a low Sunday (9am - 12:30pm)
Location: Westby
food-miles score. Sustainability is an important component,
so filling the freezer does not fit the model, but savoring that
occasional treat from familiar waters does. You’ll even learn
how to cook your catch!
Instructor: John Motoviloff
7th Annual
DRIFTLESS SPOON GATHERING
608-410-0041 / jmotoviloff@nwtf.net
Date: 6/01/19 - 6/02/19
Registration Deadline: 5/24/2019
In this skill-sharing event, spoon carving instructors
Class Time: Friday (5pm - 9pm), Saturday (8am - dark), and carving hobbyists will gather together to carve,
Sunday (check with mentor) learn, and share techniques. All levels of experience
Location: La Farge, WI
are welcome, and beginners will be well cared for.
Listen to the sound of hatchets hewing and help fill
the floor with wood shavings. Enjoy the tradition of a
2019 US BODGER’S BALL Spoon Pass and the opportunity to purchase spoons,
bowls, and tools from talented artisans.
The 2019 U.S. Bodger Ball is a weekend of woodworkers of all Basic carving knives and sharpening supplies will be
levels sharing their experiences, skills, and passion for chair available on loan to beginners and for purchase. Bring
making and other green woodworking. spoon blanks and green wood (if you have them) and
lunch & snacks. Coffee and tea will be available. Bring
There will be various demonstrations and learning opportunities something for a potluck gathering Saturday evening.
throughout the weekend. At this event, you will develop or Camp in the park Friday and Saturday night, if you like.
rekindle friendships that will be last for years. On Friday night, meet at the communal campfire for
Instructor: Vasaas fellowship and stories. Workshops and carving begin
Saturday with coffee at 9am and demos at 10am.
Date: 6/28/19 - 6/30/19
Registration Deadline: 6/21/2019 Instructors Tom Wheeler & Terry Beck (and friends!)
Class Time: Friday (12pm - 5pm), Saturday (8:30am - 5pm), Date: 9/13/2019 - 9/15/2019
Sunday (8:30am - 3pm) Time: Friday evening through Sunday afternoon
Location: Westby Fee: $15 individual or $25 for family
Location: La Farge Village Park, La Farge, WI (additional $10
or $20 fee for camping can be made payable to the Village
of La Farge)
S I G N U P F O R C L A S S E S A N D C H E C K F O R N E W C L A S S E S AT D R I F T L E S S F O L K S C H O O L . O R G 23You can also read
