New Farmers' Market Opens at Ag Heritage Park

Looking for a source of fresh, locally grown produce and a fun way to while away your Thursday afternoons this summer? Try The Market at Ag Heritage Park!

The Market is a collaborative effort among several groups interested in providing new markets to Alabama farmers and new sources of Alabama produce to consumers.

"We'd heard many people say that Auburn needed a farmers' market, and several of us in the College of Agriculture not only agreed, but we thought it would be a perfect project for the College to sponsor," says Katie Jackson, an editor for the College and one of the organizers of The Market.

So, CoAg staff members joined forces with the Lee County Extension System office, the Alabama State Farmers' Market Authority, the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and the Auburn-Opelika Convention and Visitors Bureau to establish The Market concept.

The Market is held at Ag Heritage Park, which is located on Samford Avenue on the AU campus (between Donahue Drive and Wire Road across from the AU athletic complex) each Thursday afternoon from 4 to 7 p.m., rain or shine. It features locally grown produce along with such products as honey, fresh herbs, cut flowers, cheeses and much more.

"For the past several years we have held CoAg's Fall Roundup and Taste of Alabama Agriculture event at Ag Heritage Park and it has been an ideal outdoor venue," says Robert Hensarling, Ag Heritage Park director. The Park encompasses 30 acres of land that is being developed into a site that pays tribute to Alabama's farmers and agricultural sector; serves as a gathering place for students, faculty, alumni, friends and visitors; and extends educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

"It seemed obvious that the site would also be great for a weekly farmers' market," he adds. "There is plenty of greenspace for vendors to set up and for visitors to wander around.

The Market is open to all farmers from Alabama or in neighboring states within 25 miles of Alabama's border, and those growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs and even ornamental plants are welcome to sell there. Artisans who have original, high-quality art and crafts to sell may also be able to reserve a space.

"We are encouraging backyard gardeners who have an abundance of produce and products to sell there, too," says Jackson. "And if there are groups, such as the Master Gardeners or garden clubs, that want to sell produce to raise money for their organizations, they, too, are welcome. However, anyone who sells needs to obtain a grower's license from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System to be eligible."

A small fee will be charged for each booth, and all vendors must meet locally grown or made qualifications. A list of vendor rules is available upon request.

"In addition to the great selection of produce and products, we will provide lots of educational opportunities and plenty of entertainment, such as live music and cooking demonstrations, each week," says Jackson.

"We want The Market to be part of the community where people can gather to get the best of products, but also learn something new and support local farmers," Jackson adds. "We also invite any local non-profits and civic groups to contact us about setting up educational exhibits at The Market."

The Market will be open weekly until the end of September and perhaps longer if produce remains available into the fall.

For more information about The Market, contact Jackson at 334-844-5887 or smithcl@auburn.edu.

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