KDA arranges produce auction tour

KAN staff report

Produce and greenhouse growers can learn how produce auctions can work for them in a day trip to the Lincoln County Produce Auction on July 11 in Stanford.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s marketing office arranged the tour to acquaint fruit and vegetable, greenhouse flower producers and others in horticulture production with produce auctions. Buyers and brokers also are invited. Kentucky has produce auctions in Bath, Christian, Lincoln and Mason counties.

“Produce auctions are becoming a viable marketing outlet for Kentucky growers,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “This tour will educate producers about how produce auctions work so they can make informed decisions about how an auction might fit their marketing plans.”

Participants will meet Lloyd Shrock, the manager of the Lincoln County auction. KDA staff will pass out copies of the auction rules, and Department staff will be on hand to answer questions. The group will stay to observe part of the day’s auction. Participants may register with the auction and bid on products, but they are asked not to buy any large items because van space will be limited.

Participants may meet KDA staff in Frankfort at the marketing office at 100 Fair Oaks Lane and ride to the auction. There is no charge for the tour, but anyone who wishes to attend is asked to pre-register by July 9.

For more information, contact Janet Eaton of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture at (502) 564-4983.