NYS Farmers Market Manager Training Program

The Science of Farmers Markets

La Tourelle Resort, Ithaca

March 5 - 7, 2013

Click here for the complete agenda: Conference Agenda 2013

The Farmers Market Federation of New York announces its annual Professional Farmers Market Managers Training Program Conference, “The Science of Farmers Markets.” The conference will be hosted by the Ithaca Farmers Market and held at La Tourelle Resort and August Moon Spa in Ithaca, March 5-7.

The conference will focus on the operating issues of farmers markets. Topics will include food safety, crisis management, working with market volunteers, understanding your consumers, financing your market, assessing your market’s economic impact and working with a board of directors.   A panel discussion will provide an opportunity to discuss issues with experienced managers who can answer your questions. There’s also a session to help you find all the resources you need to make your market a success.

The conference will break mid-week for a tour through Cornell University. This tour will look at facilities and labs that are in operation and under construction to help educate New York’s farmers be up-to-date on new techniques and innovative in the creation of new value-added products. The University is there to support local agriculture, directly and through the Cooperative Extension system. Learn what Cornell is doing to keep New York agriculture on the cutting edge so that you can bring this vital information back to your farmers.

“Bring a Friend to Conference” is a new feature, encouraging new conference attendees. Individuals who bring a friend to register for the full conference are eligible for a $50 rebate. We hope to encourage everyone to spread the word about the conference and capture the interest of many who have not taken advantage of this exciting opportunity. Contact the Federation office for complete details regarding the program.

If you haven’t been to a Farmers Market Managers Training Conference in the past, mark your calendars for March 5-7. This is your opportunity to boost your skills as a market manager; network with others across the state and beyond; share ideas, suggestions and questions; and make new friendships. If you have been to one of these conferences, then you know the value of the sessions and the relationships you build among your peers.