By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) are hosting six regional Local Food Producer Workshops in 2024 to support farmers’ market vendors and managers, as well as individuals looking to sell food products directly to consumers.
Kansas farmers’ markets play a key role in providing fresh food and boosting the local economy, with more than 100 markets registered in 2024. “We strive to provide education to Kansas farmers’ markets and agricultural businesses to help them thrive,” said KDA’s From the Land of Kansas manager. “These workshops will support local businesses by providing up-to-date food safety information and new marketing insights for direct consumers.”
Workshop Highlights
Topics vary by location but include:
- Marketing strategies
- Food safety and regulations
- Selling meat, eggs, and poultry
- Sales tax guidelines for vendors
- Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program training
- KDA will also provide free scale certification for attendees through its weights and measures program.
Workshop Dates and Locations
January 31: Manhattan (Riley County Fairgrounds)
February 1: Wichita (Sedgwick County Extension Education Center)
February 7: Olathe (K-State Olathe)
February 21: Chanute (Neosho County Community College)
February 28: Hays (K-State Agricultural Research Center)
March 28: Garden City (Southwest Research–Extension Center)
Registration costs $25 per participant and is open at FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop or local extension offices.
Funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, these workshops are part of the Kansas Ag Growth Strategy to enhance small agribusiness success. For details, contact fromthelandofkansas@ks.gov or call 785-564-6756.
The Local Food Producer Workshops provide valuable training for Kansas producers, helping them thrive in the specialty crop sector while fostering economic growth.
Photo Credit:kansas-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kansas, Business, Livestock, Poultry