MDAC to host farmers market manager workshop
Feb 26, 2025- The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce will host a workshop for farmers market managers, staff, volunteers and board members on Thursday, March 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. inside the Sparkman Building at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, located at 1150 Lakeland Drive in Jackson.
“There are over 70 farmers markets across our great state,” said Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. “These markets are a great resource for communities to find locally sourced, fresh produce and goods. I encourage those involved in the management of their local farmers market to participate in our agency’s upcoming workshop to learn specific strategies to grow and improve their markets.”
The purpose of this workshop is to share strategies for managing a farmers market effectively and efficiently with attendees. Workshop organizers will cover essential topics such as understanding market infrastructure and operations, along with navigating regulatory, labeling and food safety requirements for selling at farmers markets. Attendees will learn valuable strategies for farmer, vendor and customer retention and discover how to curate effective sponsorship opportunities. Guests and expert speakers will also dive into cottage foods regulations and provide an overview of sales tax considerations.
The registration fee to attend is $20, which includes lunch, and the deadline to register is Thursday, March 6. The workshop will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude by 3 p.m.
