During the past couple of years, the growth of the Taste of Tucker Farmers Market has been amazing. We have increased from approximately four consistent vendors in 2010 to a total of 33 vendors in 2014.
The market has experienced an upward trend in the number of shoppers as well. Last season, we were fortunate enough to be able to operate three different locations throughout the county: Parsons, Hendricks, and Davis. We anticipate markets in those same locations again this year, and may even add a Saturday morning market in the Parsons city parking lot. Specific dates and locations of the market will be released soon.
At the close of last season, the market vendors elected a Board of Directors and adopted new bylaws that will assist them in moving forward and continuing to grow. We would like to take this opportunity to extend our gratitude to the communities that support our local farmers and encourage citizens to shop at the markets this year. Our market is unique in that the produce offered for sale is grown within 30 miles of the market location by farmers who receive 100% of the dollars that you spend. The Taste of Tucker market does not take a commission from the producers and only charges $10 for a season permit to become a vendor. We will be having our first membership meeting for the 2014 season on April 8 at 6 p.m. at the Parsons Senior Center.
If you are interested in becoming a vendor at the Taste of Tucker Farmers Market, feel free to attend this meeting. If you have questions regarding the farmers market and how to get involved, please contact Jennifer Poling at the WVU Extension Office at 304-478-2949 x. 209 or stop by the office.