Commercial Horticulture
Commercial Horticulture
Susan Fox
Farmer's Markets
Commercial Horticulture
Local food sources provide fresh, nutritious food as well as a connection of people to their food source which is highly valued. It provides income to small farmers with limited land resources. Extension supports these operations and the farmers' market with technical support and by aiding the Lyon County Farmers' Market members.
An expanded range of produce and improved availability of local foods. Improved production methods and yields resulting in increased profitability to the producers.
Intermediate outcomes are improved production by members and a more diversified array of vegetables grown with high quality and food safety standards at the market.
Initial outcomes are maintenance of the farmers' market by supporting local membership and helping them to meet state guidelines, providing educational support at the market. Educate producers on production methods and provide support including disease and insect identification, weed control methods, etc.
Initial Outcome: Understanding of the new food safety regulations.
Indicator: Farmers attending food safety trainings.
Method: Pre and post test.
Timeline: March 2018
Intermediate Outcome: Farmers assisted with production and marketing of local produce.
Indicator: Practices implemented by farmers.
Method: Farm visits, disease, insect, weed identification and control recommendations, production practices.
Timeline: Summer 2017, spring of 2018.
Audience: Producers
Project or Activity: Fall and winter vegetable production meeting
Content or Curriculum: Methods and crops for high tunnel fall/winter production, variety trials, disease resistance, etc.
Inputs: Specialists, extension publications, farmer speakers.
Date: July 2017
Audience: Producers
Project or Activity: Farmers' Market GAP Training
Content or Curriculum: GAP training, market updates, state requirements.
Inputs: State materials and forms.
Date: March 2018