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What is modern homesteading?
Modern homesteading refers to a self-sufficient lifestyle. From growing your own produce to homeschooling, you can do it all!
What to expect at this conference?
Registrants will attend short educational sessions from local community members about various aspects of homestead living. Each day offers a different line up of speakers and topics! Full conference schedule found in the conference packet linked below. Attendees can also choose to participate in a soap making workshop, raffle, and more!
How much is the conference?
$50 for members of the Douglas-Hart Foundation
$60 for non-members
The soap making workshop is an additional $20/member or $25/non-members. Raffle tickets are also an additional cost.
What is included in the cost?
  • Full two-day conference access to all educational sessions (excluding the soap making workshop)
  • Swag bag
  • Refreshments
  • Lunch
​Where will the conference be held?
Douglas-Hart Nature Center
​2204 Dewitt Ave. E, Mattoon, IL 61938

Conference Schedule

Do you 'knead' to know more? Click the link below for the conference packet. It includes general conference information, lodging and dining recommendations, and the conference schedule. All registrants will receive a printed copy in their swag bag.

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Conference Registration

We know you are 'egg'cited to attend the conference! Registration opens December 18 for members of the Douglas-Hart Foundation, and it opens to the public on January 2. 
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About the Presenters

Learn more about our wonderful presenters for the 2024 conference! 



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Conference Cancellation Policy:
All cancellations must be made by Friday, February 2 at 12pm to receive a full refund. Cancellations after that date/time will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations due to illness may receive a full refund with a doctor's note after the cancellation date; otherwise, you will receive a 50% refund. 
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  • Volunteer Stewardship Network​
  • Milk & Honey Coffee House
  • de Buhr's Feed and Seed
  • Sage and Prim
  • Holy Moly Daylight Donuts
  • Fit-2-Serve
  • Ginger Ales
  • Coles County Health Department
  • Coles County Soil and Water Conservation District
  • University of Illinois Extension
  • Lisa Hickman
  • Julie Gilliland
  • Kim Ross
Updated January 2024
Email the executive director, Jennifer Day Tariq ([email protected]), to inquire about how you can support the Modern Homesteading 2024 Conference!