Warren County FFA Students getting a first hand look at the business side of agriculture with their bi-weekly farmers market.
Warren County Schools Communications Coordinator Sarah Cantrell said the school’s FFA chapter is very active. Cantrell said as a CTE program, FFA is always looking for ways to prepare future producers for their careers through education.
“The farmer’s market just felt like a natural fit for the students to start offering products or services they’re already doing on their own outside of school,” Cantrell said. “I think that was the idea behind it, but also to allow the students to work on their entrepreneurial skills.”
Cantrell said the market is for any FFA member who wants to showcase their product. The market will be held at the Warren County High School Barn once every two weeks until October 3.
The modern day farmer has to wear a lot of hats, and Cantrell said the business side is an important one to learn. Cantrell said the farmers market is an example of trade.
“Whether they’re growing and cutting, and hauling hay or fruits and vegetables, or whether they do baked or canned goods, they’re producing that product and bringing that to what would be a storefront essentially,” Cantrell said. “Interacting with potential customers and then making that sale. The exact process if they were to go into business for themselves and become entrepreneurs in agriculture.”
Cantrell said the students determine the amount of needed inventory ahead of time. She said students are given the dates ahead of time, and they will base the amount of product to bring on head counts from the last market. Cantrell said it is the students’ responsibility to keep up with supply and demand.
Cantrell said the FFA plays a big role in equipping future farmers for success. She said there are current producers that work closely with the students.
“it’s kind of one on one,” Cantrell said. “This is how we’re doing it. This is how you can do it. And so it’s great experience for any student who may be interested in a future in agriculture.”
Proceeds from the Warren County FFA Farmers Market go directly back into the program. Cantrell said the exact dates and times can be found on the Warren County FFA Facebook page.
