Darrell Blackwelder
For the Salisbury Post
The 2008 Salisbury-Rowan Farmers Market officially opens Saturday morning at 7 a.m.
The farmers market is located at the corner of South Main and Bank streets in downtown Salisbury. Two large green shade canopies easily identify the area where local producers will be selling fresh, homegrown produce, meat, cut and ornamental flowers, baked goods and handmade crafts.
Starting this weekend, the farmers market will be open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The market encourages participation of local growers. Growers outside Rowan County may participate. However, priority for space goes to local producers.
Now is a good time to meet local growers and ask questions about future crops and offer some suggestions of what you may want to purchase. Growers enjoy sharing their knowledge about their crops and are eager to impart information. Many have recipes and cooking tips along with their produce.
Early in the season is a good time to establish a relationship with growers.
Harry Agner is the market manager. He coordinates the logistics of the market and enforces its rules and guidelines.
No pets will be allowed in the market because of concerns for food safety. Food safety is a main concern and priority of the market.
Those who wish to participate may submit a vendor application to Agner and pay a $12-per-day fee for Wednesdays and Saturdays. The market encourages local youth to participate, allowing 4-H/FFA members a reduced fee of $6 per day.
More information including market rules, participating vendors and an updated weekly newsletter, as well as a market application, can be found at the market Web site www.salisburyrowanfarmersmarket.com
Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County.