MDAC to host Farmers Market Manager Workshop

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce will host a workshop for farmers market managers, staff, volunteers and board members on Tuesday, April 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. inside the Forestry Building at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, located at 1150 Lakeland Drive in Jackson.

“Now more than ever, the public is looking for more ways to shop local, fresh produce,” said Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. “Our farmers markets across the state play an important role for farmers, consumers and local economies within the agriculture community. I want to encourage market managers and personnel to take advantage of this opportunity to learn strategies for growing their local farmers markets.”

The purpose of this workshop is to provide farmers market leaders support with creating productive and effective marketing opportunities for small farmers and value-added food producers. Participants will learn strategies for managing effective markets and potential sources of grant and sponsorship opportunities. They will also hear from experts on cottage foods, sales tax and food safety, as well as signage requirements for products sold at markets. In addition, market managers will hear from a panel of farmers and other market vendors on their experience and growth through farmers markets.

The registration fee to attend is $15, which includes lunch. The deadline to register is Wednesday, April 6, 2022. The workshop will begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude by 3:30 p.m.

For more information or to obtain a registration form, visit the Alerts and Announcement section at mdac.ms.gov, contact 601-358-1168 or email Purvie Green at purvie@mdac.ms.gov.

News Release