JACKSON, Wyo. — Today, March 18, National Agriculture Day is celebrated across the U.S. as a time to recognize the hardworking farmers, ranchers and landowners who nourish our communities. At Teton Conservation District (TCD), we honor our local food producers and the deep agricultural roots of Teton County, Wyoming.
For generations, families have worked the land, raising livestock and growing crops. Today, many of these same families continue to ranch here, using their knowledge and experience to adapt to changing conditions and conserve our resources for the future. And TCD is here to help you become part of this legacy and contribute to our food system through a backyard garden.
Founded in 1946, TCD was created to help landowners address challenges such as soil erosion, water scarcity and environmental degradation. Over the past 75 years, our mission has expanded to support broader natural resources stewardship across Teton County, partnering with thousands of local individuals, agencies, businesses, and organizations. While our scope has grown, our core focus remains the same: working with the community to implement practices that protect our natural resources. Learn more about our history here.
National Ag Day not only celebrates the importance of food production but also highlights the responsibility of managing our natural resources sustainably. Growing food locally and responsibly is an excellent way to minimize agricultural impact and TCD’s Agricultural Conservation Planting Program can help you start down that path. With today’s high cost of food and uncertain international markets, there is no better way build resiliency and sustainability into your life than growing your own food. Plus, there has never been more accessible information about preserving your Wyoming harvest!
Greenhouse produce, including tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers- which ones are ripe?! 
Interior of a greenhouse with durable polycarbonate walls, providing a more reliable growing environment. 
A one-two punch of a greenhouse and raised beds, producing food. 
Multiple raised beds with removable screening, protected from herbivory by birds and mammals. 
Newly constructed assemble-it-yourself greenhouse and raised beds.
Check out the projects Teton County neighbors are using to boost food production in their backyards. Over the past year, the program has supported Teton County residents who built DIY greenhouses, installed GrowHuts and expanded backyard gardens with raised beds. The program is also available to support commercial-scale greenhouses and high tunnels, community garden projects, and large-scale conservation tillage and cover crop practices.
As gardeners know, growing your own food is more than just practical — it’s a rewarding way to boost morale and nourish yourself with fresh, homegrown produce. From the “victory gardens” born during the 1918 flu pandemic and World War II, to today’s local efforts, home gardening has long been a way to build resilience. If you’re uncertain about growing in our climate, check out these helpful tips including extending your growing season, planting hardy crops and deterring wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking a site visit, resources or grant funding to support a food production project, TCD is here to support you. Learn about the program here: Agricultural Conservation Planting Program.
For additional information, contact Robb Sgroi, Land Resources Specialist, at 307-733-2110 or robb@tetonconservation.org.
