Dallas County Conservation tries every summer to host a series of food programs, and their next one will be held this Sunday.

Pete Malmberg, Curator for the Forest Park Museum, says the program is entitled “Spend Smart, Eat Smart,” and will focus on helping people eat healthy without spending too much. He believes food issues are becoming more of a concern for people, as they realize their health is largely tied to what they eat.

Malmberg realizes eating healthy sometimes costs more, and people generally don’t want to spend too much money on food. With that in mind, “Spend Smart, Eat Smart” will teach attendees about the foods that give them the best taste and nutrition for their money. Participants will receive sample menus and grocery lists, and they will practice writing meal plans. The program will be taught by a registered dietitian, and there is no cost to attend. However, Malmberg says there will be an optional “Health and Homemade” cookbook available for $5.

He thinks programs like this are a good way to show people good habits without scaring them into it. “People should really care about their health. The food, water, and soil issues are becoming really, really paramount, so we’re trying to do more programming on that. And not negative, gloomy-type programs, but positive, helpful ones. You can do a lot of things yourself that enhance your own life.”

The event will be held this Sunday from 1:30-3 p.m. and registration is required so they know the amount of materials they need to provide. To register, visit the Forest Park Museum and Arboretum, or call 515-465-3577. To learn more about this and other conservation events, listen to Monday’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program at RacoonValleyRadio.com.