Consumer demand for locally grown fresh produce continues to gain momentum. Successful ventures as KY Proud and HomeGrown by Heros have shifted the consumers focus away from the grocery store and toward the farm stand. Local farmers markets have become the consumer’s choice to provide safe, fresh and nutritious produce for communities across the state.

To raise awareness and increase community participation in the local farmers market, Grant County Cooperative Extension, City of Williamstown, Williamstown Main Street Merchants Association and farmers market supporters collaborated to host a farm to table dinner showcasing local farms and farm products.  A committee worked with a well-known chef to plan and host a 4 course dinner.  Tickets were sold to 150 people at a price of $50 each to experience the meal.  The proceeds of more than $7,500 helping to sponsor Grant County 4-H programs and Homemakers activities. All agents were involved in the planning and implementation of the program. The Agriculture Agent sourced all of the materials used in the preparation of the meal.

After the Farm to Table meal, the contributors that sell through the Grant County Farmers Market participants reported an increase in sales of their locally produced items because of the publicity of the event. Market members also reported follow-up buying by those who were in attendance at the meal that evening. Many of the meal attendees told the staff that by having this meal, they will increase their purchases of locally produced items. With this Farm to Table Meal, the Grant County Cooperative Extension Service was able to highlight the healthy agriculture and horticulture products grown in Grant County and Kentucky.