06/07/2005

New Farmers' Market Opening in Auburn

AUBURN, Ala. — A farmers’ market that offers fresh locally grown produce and a relaxing way to while away your Thursday afternoons will open June 30 at Auburn University’s Ag Heritage Park.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park will be a collaborative effort by several groups interested in providing new markets to Alabama farmers and new sources of Alabama produce to consumers.

“We’ve heard many people say that Auburn needs a farmers’ market, and several of us in the AU College of Agriculture not only agreed, we thought it would be a perfect project for the college to sponsor,” said Katie Jackson, an editor for the college and one of The Market organizers.

College of Agriculture 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 will be held at the park Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m., rain or shine, from the grand opening on June 30 through the end of September. The dates could be extended into the fall if local produce remains available.

The Market will feature Alabama-grown produce as well as other local products, including honey, fresh herbs, cut flowers, cheeses and AU-produced Porchetta Originale.

Ag Heritage Park—located on Samford Avenue, between Donahue Drive and Wire Road and across from the AU Athletic complex—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.

“For the past several years we have held the College of Agriculture’s Fall Roundup and Taste of Alabama Agriculture event at the park, and it has been an ideal outdoor venue,” said Robert Hensarling, Ag Heritage Park director. “It seemed obvious that the site would also be great for a weekly farmers’ market. There is plenty of green space where vendors can set up and visitors can wander around.”

All Alabama growers and those within a 25-mile radius of the state are welcome to sell their fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs and ornamental plants at The Market.

“We are encouraging backyard gardeners who have an abundance of produce and products to sell here, too,” said Jackson. “And if there are groups, such as the Master Gardeners or garden clubs, that want to sell produce or flowers to raise money for their organizations, they are welcome as well.”

In addition, artisans who have original, high-quality art and crafts may be able to reserve space.

A nominal fee will be charged for each booth. All vendors must meet locally grown or -made qualifications and must obtain a grower’s license from the Lee County Extension office. Contact Dani Carroll at 334-749-3353 or carrodl@auburn.edu to get a permit.

“Along with the great selection of local produce and products, we hope to have lots of educational opportunities and plenty of entertainment, such as live music and cooking demonstrations, each week,” Jackson said.

“We want The Market to be part of the community where people can get the best of products, support local farmers and learn something new,” Jackson said, noting that local non-profit and civic groups are invited to set up educational exhibits at The Market.

For more information about The Market or for a list of vendor rules, contact Jackson at 334-844-5887 or smithcl@auburn.edu, or Hensarling at 334-750-3970.

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News from:

Office of Ag Communications & Marketing

Auburn University College of Agriculture
Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station
3 Comer Hall, Auburn University
Auburn, AL 36849
334-844-4877 (PHONE) 334-844-5892 (FAX)

Contact Jamie Creamer, 334-844-2783 or jcreamer@auburn.edu

For immediate release