By Kellie Houx
KHoux@cherryroad.com

CLAY COUNTY — John Davis, parks director for Clay County, shared the pitch to offer a seasonal farmers market at Smithville Lake from June through September each year.

The commission approved the market Thursday, May 22.

Davis explained that he wants to see a farmers market on the second and fourth Fridays at the Kelsey Short Youth Camp, 17980 Collins Road.

He explained that the mission is to offer a market for campers and the community that provides locally sourced produce from area farmers.

“Our purpose is to support healthy food options and provide area farmers with additional opportunities to promote their farms within the area,” Davis said.

The market will run from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. beginning in June. In addition, there will be three bonus market dates, July 3 (Thursday), Aug. 29 and Oct. 3 for a fall harvest.

All applicants must be approved by the Clay County Health Department and have the required license or certifications submitted with the application for consideration. Vendors will be responsible for providing all necessary items for their booth that are required by the health department.

Farmers will be permitted to sell fresh fruits and vegetables, plants and trees, fresh and dried flowers, herbs, nuts. Sellers of meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, cider or any other food or beverage items must provide the market manager with relevant state and county health permits.

For more information, call 407-3400.