The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is almost ready to house farmers, produce, baked goods, flowers and more. Thursday, the site was host to a ribbon cutting and luncheon for partners who were involved in planning and building it. Dewitt Hardee of the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund represented the department, as the farmers market received a $100,000 grant from the fund.
The opening date for the facility will be set after a market manager is hired. Vance County ranks 83rd in the state in overall agricultural production. According to the 2007 Census of Agriculture, there are 246 farms in Vance County on 55,091 acres. County farmers produce hay, tobacco, cattle, soybeans, wheat, fruits and vegetables.
The NCADFP’s purpose is to support projects that encourage the preservation of qualifying agricultural, horticultural and forest lands to foster the growth, development and sustainability of family farms. Grants are awarded to secure agricultural conservation easements on lands used for agricultural production; to support public and private enterprise programs that promote profitable and sustainable agricultural, horticultural and forestland activities; and for the development of agricultural plans.