The Mancos Conservation District and the Mt. Lookout Grange are sponsoring a series of workshops on environmentally sound pasture practices.

Plant ecologist Jack Burk and San Juan Mycology co-owner Travis Custer will talk about reducing the impact on the land while increasing production.

"It should be everybody's goal," Burk said.

The four Saturday sessions will cover soil, irrigation, weeds and grazing for the small-acreage landowner. Small-acreage owners can implement farming practices used before the advent of large equipment and chemical sprays.

For example, the class will cover integrated weed management, which incorporates mowing, planting competitive grasses, and teaching cattle to eat weeds.

"The best defense against weeds is a good offense," he said.

Burk also plans sessions building on the basics presented in the next few weeks.

The afternoon sessions will be 1 to 3 p.m. at the Grange on four consecutive Saturdays starting on Aug. 23. A $5 donation per session is suggested.