DATE: 1/17/2007

CONTACT: York Glover, 843-470-3655; yglover@clemson.edu

WRITER: Tom Lollis, 803-284-3343, ext. 241; tlollis@clemson.edu

Vegetable producers to hear about wholesale auction idea

BEAUFORT – Vegetable producers in Beaufort and surrounding counties interested in a potential new marketing opportunity are invited to a meeting at the Penn Center on St. Helena Island on Jan. 23.

“A wholesale produce auction market offers an opportunity to allow growers to sell directly to buyers from produce companies, supermarket chains, roadside market operators, restaurants and the public,” said York Glover, Clemson Extension agent in Beaufort County.

“On Jan. 23 we will hear from three experts from the state of Ohio who have years of experience in setting up and operating this type of market,” he said. Program presenters will include Randall James from Ohio State University, auctioneer Michael Davis and Levi Miller, an Amish farmer.

The meeting begins at noon. Call the Clemson Extension office in Beaufort at 843-470-3655, ext. 114 by Friday, Jan. 19, to register. No fee will be charged.

Details for a planning meeting of farmers who are interested in establishing a new market will be announced during the meeting in Darrah Hall at Penn Center.

“The market would promote local fruits and vegetables,” said Glover. “The market would be owned by farmers, who would hire the manager, auctioneer and office staff. A commission for sales would be assessed.”

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