Wednesday, Sep. 01, 2010

Farmers market reopens

A small but rapidly-growing, student-led farmers market returns today to N.C. State's campus.

The N.C. State Farmers Market, which made its debut a year ago, is becoming a popular attraction for students. It's set up from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays from now until Nov. 17 in the brickyard next to the library. It will return in the spring, from Feb. 9 to April 27.

At least nine vendors are expected to supply local and state-grown fruits and vegetables, and it could grow by year's end. Last year, when students launched the market, it had three vendors. That increased to nine in just a few months. This year, the market could include a cookie vendor and other additions.

"We want it to grow as big as the school will allow us to grow," said Max Sherard, a junior who does research on organic vegetables and is in charge of the market's outreach. "We're only allotted so much space, but we're trying to fill it - and it's becoming quite the social event."

It is organized primarily by the university's agricultural program, with a governing board of students who promote and organize it.

Sherard said the market's primary goal is to educate students about sustainability and local produce. He said some farmers drive more than two hours just to interact with students.

"It shows pride in your state and nation," Sherard said. "It shows it's easy to be healthy and support the hard workers who feed our state."