Columbus’ Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market again was certified by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce.
The market was certified as part of the Mississippi Certified Farmers’ Market Program, which was launched by the MDAC as a way to recognize the growing number of farmers’ markets across the state.
MDAC representatives said it also is a “marketing initiative designed to identify and promote markets, where producers of Mississippi-grown fruits, vegetables and plant materials gather to sell their goods direct to consumers” and noted markets participating in the voluntary program receive promotional and technical assistance.
“I think that it adds integrity to our market to be certified, in that we get the opportunity to have links to the MDAC website,” said Anne Freeze, who volunteers at and serves on the board of directors for Columbus’ market. “They offer workshops to farmers and marketing tools. In a sense, it can pull some unity to the identity of the market.”
“This is our fifth year to receive this certification for The Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market,” said Main Street Columbus Director Amber Murphree Brislin. “Obtaining this certification each year is very important to the growth and continued high standards we strive for at the market.”
“They’re certifying each (vendor) and making sure each person meets criteria,” said Freeze. “I think that gives us integrity, as well. When you buy something from someone, you have a choice of buying from someone who is not certified and from someone who is certified. You’re going to chose the certified person. In that sense, I think it’s a great program.”
“We pay special attention to maintain the integrity of the market by continuing to offer the best in locally grown produce, baked goods, flowers and handmade craft items,” Brislin said. “We have fantastic support from our community and the City of Columbus, which helps keep the market successful. By maintaining our Mississippi certification, the community can be guaranteed that the quality items will continue to be found weekly at the market.”
The Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market, located at the corner of Second Avenue and Second Street is open April through October, Mondays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
For additional information about the market, call 662-328-6305.
“With the growth of the surrounding sports complex and the Riverwalk, we look forward to the growth that will bring to the market,” Brislin added. “We will continue to keep this certification, in addition to offering live music, special events, children’s activities and workshops that are all free and open to the public. That will only add to the charming atmosphere of downtown Columbus.”
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