If you use a pressure canner with a gauge, you should have it tested each year. The gauge is a delicate instrument and it’s vitally important that you know if it’s accurate BEFORE you begin using it. The Coos County Master Food Preservers offer gauge testing as a free service year-round at the Extension Office in Myrtle Point. You can also find them at the Coos Bay Farmers’ Market on the first Wednesday of each month, from 9 am until 3 pm. Their booth is located near Central and Hwy. 101, next to the Coos County Master Gardeners booth in front of the quilt shop. Bring your gauge still attached to your lid. They’ll test your gauge and check your plugs and gaskets (sounds like a car tune-up). It only takes a couple of minutes and it’s time well spent to ensure you’re canning your foods safely. If you need more information about pressure canner gauge testing, or food preservation, you can contact program coordinator Cindy Peterson at 541-572-5263, ext. 25299.