UW Extension to Offer Geodesic Dome School in Chugwater

For those interested in learning how to build a geodesic dome greenhouse, University of Wyoming Extension will offer a free, four-day class in Chugwater Monday-Thursday, Oct. 7-10.

The geodome school will be held at the Chugwater Community Garden, located at 404 Happy Hollow Road outside Chugwater. For those unfamiliar with the area, it is recommended to navigate to Happy Hollow Road and turn south before using GPS software for directions to the site.

Construction will take place from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8; and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9. On Thursday, Oct. 10, participants will meet at 8 a.m. and disperse once the build is completed, likely before 5 p.m.

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 Jeff Edwards, a UW Extension specialist, who leads dome construction schools across the state. The hands-on events are designed for individuals who would like to build their own dome from scratch or who just want to learn something new.

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

Participants are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and clothing that can get dirty and are expected to bring their own work gloves.

Funding for the Chugwater geodome school was provided by a U.S. Department of Agriculture specialty crop grant through the Wyoming Department of Agriculture.

To register for the event, email Susie Graves at [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.