NTCC farmer's market to return July 2

farmers market picture collage
  • Farmer's Market dates are July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
  • Events begin at 9 a.m. and last until sellout.
  • At noon there will be an Innovative Farmer Tips class.
  • In addition to produce, plants and canned items grown on the NTCC farm, outside vendors are also welcome. 
  • The Ag Club will sell grilled chicken sandwiches for $5 each. 

Click below for the vendor application. Questions can be directed to René McCracken, Ag Director, at 903-434-8267 or rmccracken@ntcc.edu

 

By: René McCracken, Ag Director

It seems ironic that as little as a generation ago, my grandparents managed to feed their family of eight, either by fishing, hunting, gathering and/or subsistence farming and yet most of our highly developed age would starve if we had to eat what we could grow!  I can remember them hardly ever going to the store to purchase any food product that they could grow on their farm.  It is from them that I learned to cherish the soil, covet fresh churned butter, and dream of vine ripe tomato sandwiches on homemade wheat bread. Now with the industrial age and new technology – society has developed primarily large-scale mono-culture food production operations, and to most gardening is often only considered a hobby. But growing one's own food could mean increased security, health, and enjoyment.

The NTCC Farmer’s Market is so much more than just a place to buy great locally raised food, the market was established to be a service to the community and area farmers.  The main goal was to be a “gathering place” for area farmers growing great things to sell to those individuals looking to purchase those items.  Students and instructors work to provide NTCC plants, livestock, and processed canned items to provide our students with direct marketing experience.  Local growers are encouraged to come out, learn to present their products, test the markets with various products all at the wonderful setting of the Elizabeth Hoggatt Whatley Ag Complex and Pavilion.

“After a year of COVID, we at NTCC felt like this was the perfect time to bring back all that was the NTCC Farmer’s Market”, stated Rene’ McCracken.  New venders are needed and welcomed! Complete a vender application and claim your spot!   The 2021 season opener will be this Friday, July 2nd beginning at 9 am. NTCC will have Grilled Chicken Sandwiches and drink for $5, drop by and see what great things that have been growing at NTCC Farms!

ag students