Additional Training Dates Scheduled for Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP WIC and Seniors) and Fruit & Vegetable (FVC) Check Program

ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 31, 2011) – To help farmers understand the recent changes and addition of new federal nutrition programs that can be accepted at farmers’ markets, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is partnering with the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) to offer training for both the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP – WIC and Seniors) and the Fruit and Vegetable Check (FVC) Program.  This training is mandatory for farmers who want to accept checks from participants at authorized farmers’ markets.

Training participants will learn about the different federal nutrition benefit programs, be provided with the policies and procedures for both the FMNP and the FVC program, and upon completion of the training will receive new signs to display at their market stands.
Training Dates, Times and Locations:
•    Wednesday, April 6, Harford County: Heat Center, 1201 Technology Drive, Aberdeen, Maryland  21001 from 10 am to noon
•    Monday, April 11, Washington County Agricultural Education Center, 7313 Sharpsburg Pike
Boonsboro MD  21713-2431 from 10:00 a.m. until noon
•    Monday, April 11, Garrett County Extension Office, 1916 Maryland Highway, Suite A, Mt. Lake Park, MD 21550 from 5pm to 7pm
•    Tuesday, April 19, Montgomery County: Department of Economic Development, Agricultural Services Division, 18410 Muncaster Road, Derwood, Maryland 20855 from 11am to 1pm
•    Tuesday, April 26, Anne Arundel County: MD Department of Agriculture Headquarters, 50 Harry S Truman Pkwy, Annapolis MD  21401 from 1pm to 3pm
•    Additional training dates will be announced as they are scheduled

Please contact Amy Crone (410-841-5776 or [email protected]) know if you plan to attend or if there are any questions.

Visit www.mda.state.md.us/md_products/farmers_market_dir.php to learn more about Maryland’s Farmers’ Market Programs.