For the last six years. Cooperative Extension Service ANR agents in Morgan, Rowan, Lewis, Elliott and Carter Counties have co-hosted an annual educational training evening for Farmers Market vendors. These sessions have utilized cutting edge researchers and state resource providers to educate over 300 vendors in the latest production, value-added, and marketing practices.  This series also provides an opportunity for farmers to network with growers from other counties. 

As a result of attending these meetings, an informal survey indicates that many participants have adopted recommended pest control practices, added value to their products by selling home based and home based micro-processed products, and do a better job with marketing products at point of sale. Morgan County vendors have implemented sampling, cross merchandising fruits/vegetables with craft items, and arranging booth displays to be more attractive to customers.  Members have expressed their appreciation for this event citing they have benefitted from their new networks, hearing great speakers close to home, and increased sales.