2007 PRESS RELEASES
August 28, 2007
WORKSHOP SET TO HELP SMALL FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS MAXIMIZE THEIR PROFITS
Contact: Marion Horsley, 804.225.3820
If you are a smaller scale farmer who operates a farm market stand, sells at a farmers market or directly to stores, participates in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), operates a pick-your-own farm, takes part in agritourism, or is considering any of the above, plan to attend a free, informative workshop designed to help you maximize your bottom line.
“Propagating Profits for the Small Fruit and Vegetable Grower” will take place Tuesday, September 18, at 6:30 p.m. at the University Holiday Inn, 900 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, Virginia. The workshop is presented by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency.
Experts will let you in on what has made their own operations successful.
- Tom Baker of Brookdale Farm in Virginia Beach will reveal how producers can cash in on their locations.
- Kitty Barker, Tourism Development Specialist with the Virginia Tourism Corporation, will describe how Tourism can help farmers tap into free resources that will help promote their operations.
- Libbey Oliver, Market Manager of the Williamsburg Farmers Market, will recount the Market’s beginnings and discuss strategies for increasing its current success.
- Clif Slade of Sycamore Springs Farm and Market in Surry, Virginia will explain how his unique approach to vegetable production has added value to his produce and translated into profits at his farm market and a nearby farmers market.
Although the workshop is free, please register by calling 276.228.5501 or e-mailing Danny.Neel@vdacs.virginia.gov to ensure ample seating and handouts.