Local farmers who are looking to expand their distribution to local markets are encouraged to check out a special one-day training program next month.
The Iowa MarketReady program is put on by the ISU Extension and Outreach Office and Dallas County Marketing and Communications Coordinator Caitlyn Ryan says even though local producers will have to travel a bit to attend the workshop, she feels the new program will be beneficial to many.
Attendees will learn what buyers look for when actively seeking to purchase goods from local suppliers. Program topics will include communications and relationship building, packaging, labels, supply and delivery, post-harvest handling, grading, insurance and marketing.
The closest training program takes place at the Madison County Extension Office in Winterset on Tuesday, January 6th from 8am-5pm.
The cost is $55 per person or $90 for a couple, which includes materials, a light lunch and refreshments.
Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, call or email Linda Naeve at 515-294-8946 orlnaeve@iastate.edu. Please give the name of the registrant, address, phone number, e-mail address and indicate whether the registrant is a produce or livestock/poultry/egg producer.