TheĀ Texas A&M AgriLife Extension ServiceĀ andĀ OneOpĀ will host a webinar on May 8 focused on the benefits of gardening for people with disabilities. OneOp is a virtual professional development platform for providers who serve military families.

The free webinar will be held from 10-11 a.m. Participants can register for the webinar by visitingĀ https://tx.ag/OneOpGardening. Once registered, participants will receive an email with instructions and a link to attend.

The webinar also can be viewed on YouTube Live for those who are unable to access the link. Contact OneOp atĀ [email protected]Ā for technical support. Up to one continuing education unit will be provided for many professional programs. Visit theĀ OneOp websiteĀ for a complete list.

AgriLife Extension program specialist Rachel Brauner, Bryan-College Station, said the webinar will explore how being in a garden or gardening can enhance the well-being of those with disabilities.

The webinar will show participants how gardens can serve as therapeutic havens, providing physical, emotional, cognitive and social well-being to those with disabilities. Participants will learn about the benefits of gardening and how gardens can help reduce stress and the practical insights on creating accessible, sensory-rich gardens that cater to varying abilities.

Featured speaker and topics

Xuan ā€œJadeā€ Wu, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension specialist and assistant professor in the AgriLife ExtensionĀ Family and Community Health unit, will be the featured speaker.

The webinar will feature the following topics:

  • Explaining the benefits of gardening for individuals with disabilities.
  • Exploring strategies for selecting sensory elements, plants and design features that cater to specific disabilities.
  • Identifying key principles and design elements that make gardens accessible and welcoming for individuals for varying abilities.
  • Recognizing the significance of creating gardens that are safe and inviting for those with disabilities.
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