CANFIELD  OSU Extension Mahoning County is partnering with the Ohio Division of Wildlife to host a workshop on harvesting and preparing venison, offering a “Harvest to Table” experience for new and experienced participants alike.

The Venison 101: Harvest to Table workshop is set for Saturday, Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Canfield Fairgrounds and the OSU Extension Mahoning County office.

The hands-on program will guide participants through the full process of preparing venison, from field dressing to cooking. The workshop is ideal for new hunters, individuals looking to expand their food preservation skills, or anyone interested in venison as a sustainable protein source.

Participants will learn harvesting, gutting and butchering techniques, as well as how to make jerky and sausage. The course will also cover preservation methods like canning and freezing, along with cooking tips and the nutrition benefits of venison. Attendees will enjoy free venison taco samples, courtesy of the Ohio Division of Wildlife.

The workshop, which will be held rain or shine, costs $20 per person and includes instruction from specialists and class resources. Youth are welcome but must register and attend with a registered adult. The class is limited to the first 30 paid registrants.

This workshop comes as deer hunting continues to be a significant part of Ohio's economy. According to a 2022 report from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, hunters generated $1.9 billion in spending and supported 12,000 jobs across the state. Deer hunting is especially popular in the Mahoning Valley. During the 2024-25 hunting season, hunters in the region harvested 4,639 deer in Columbiana County, 2,537 in Mahoning County, and 4,852 in Trumbull County.

To register, call the OSU Extension office at 330-533-5538. For more information, visit go.osu.edu/venison101.