UW Extension to Offer Geodesic Dome School in Fort Washakie

For those interested in learning how to build a geodesic dome greenhouse, University of Wyoming Extension has partnered with the Wyoming Department of Agriculture to offer a free four-day class in Fort Washakie starting Monday, Aug. 19.

Geodesic domes are a great option for Wyoming residents looking to extend the growing season and shelter their crops from snow, hail and wind, says UW Extension specialist Jeff Edwards, who leads dome construction schools across the state. These hands-on, multiday events are intended for people who would like to build their own domes from scratch -- or who just want to learn something new, he explains.

The upcoming class covers each step of the dome construction process, from raw materials to a completed 22-foot structure outfitted with raised beds and an irrigation system.

"You will learn all aspects of building a dome, including the safe use of tools, jigs and the fabrication of parts and pieces," Edwards says.

The Fort Washakie dome-building school will be hosted by UW Extension's Cent$ible Nutrition Program and constructed at Sho Rap Lodge, located at 36 Driskell Lane. The event begins at 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, and runs 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Aug. 20-22.

The first two days will focus on preparation and initial assembly of dome components. Day three will cover dome assembly, raised bed construction and installation of the irrigation system. On the last day of the school, participants will skin the dome and construct additional raised beds around the dome's outside perimeter. Plans are subject to change depending on weather.

Participants are asked to wear closed-toed shoes and bring their own work gloves.

For those unable to attend the Fort Washakie event, geodome builds will be held in Cheyenne, Cody and Chugwater in the fall. All programs are funded through a U.S. Department of Agriculture specialty crop grant provided by the Wyoming Department of Agriculture.

For more information on the class in Fort Washakie, call Cent$ible Nutrition Program educator Billie Spoonhunter at (307) 335-2872 or email [email protected]. For more information on geodome construction, call Edwards at (307) 837-2956 or email [email protected].

About University of Wyoming Extension

UW Extension serves Wyoming communities by helping residents apply university research and resources to practical problems. Since 1914, UW Extension has provided educational programs and tools to the state's 23 counties and the Wind River Indian Reservation. From 4-H programming and pesticide safety education to food preservation and nutrition courses, UW Extension upholds the university's land-grant mission by offering learning opportunities for people of all ages.

UW Extension staff members help Wyoming residents boost agricultural production, care for lawns and gardens, cultivate future leaders, support individual and community well-being, and develop thriving businesses.

To learn more, call (307) 766-5124 or visit www.uwyo.edu/uwe.