COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension and the Missouri Farmers Market Association will offer a three-part lunch ’n’ learn webinar series in February on starting and sustaining farmers markets.

“MU Extension is partnering with the Missouri Farmers Market Association on this event to support the shared goal of increasing access to local foods and providing a place for small farmers and food producers to grow their businesses,” says MU Extension horticulturist Justin Keay.

The sessions, noon to 1 p.m. on Feb. 4-6, cover the nuts and bolts of market rules and regulatory considerations, how to create a market identity and liability considerations, Keay says. A panel of farmers market managers will share insights on developing partnerships and sponsorships to support market success and longevity. MU Extension and Missouri Farmers Market Association will also share helpful resources for farmers market managers.

“Join us as we dive in for discussion and dialogue to explore the many details useful in growing great farmers markets in Missouri,” says Karissa Kay, president of the Missouri Farmers Market Association.

Register at http://muext.us/FMLLw25.

Keay says the webinar series will provide information that will be explored further in the Missouri Farmers Market Association Conference, Feb. 23-24 in Neosho, where participants can learn and network with current and aspiring market managers from across Missouri in engaging sessions.

The partnership is part of ongoing efforts by MU Extension to support local food production and marketing opportunities for small farmers and food producers, Keay says.

“For consumers and communities, markets provide a source of fresh, locally grown food,” says Bill McKelvey of MU Extension’s Community Development Program. “They are also a great place to meet and visit with neighbors, and they help boost the local economy.”

Along with this series, which is designed for current and aspiring farmers market managers, MU Extension is offering the Selling at the Farmers Market webinar series for market vendors March 10-14.

View all upcoming MU Extension events at https://extension.missouri.edu/events.