This summer, Auburn University’s campus is once again blessed with the presence of an open-air farmers market. Presented by the university’s College of Agriculture, The Market at Ag Heritage Park is a fresh, healthy shopping option for those of us who are still on The Plains for the summer. More than 25 local vendors bring in delicious food straight from the farm—ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to soaps and goat cheese.

Although The Market has been around for more than 12 years, its location has been moved to accommodate ongoing construction. You can now find it beside the Red Barn within Ag Heritage Park.

Located in Opelika, Harman Family Farms has contributed fresh tomatoes, lettuce and cage-free brown eggs for the past decade. Four years ago, Sneaky Crow Farm and George Family Farms joined The Market. Sneaky Crow Farm offers USDA Certified Organic fruits and vegetables, while George Family Farms produces fresh meat and eggs.

This year was Auburn alumnus Jessica Mills' first time working at The Market. After graduating in 2012, Mills worked as an agricultural engineer, until she decided to resign from her job and pursue her dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail. After completing the yearlong endeavor, she began growing microgreens and now sells them at farmers markets. According to Mills, the produce is grown “using organic processes with hopes of promoting a healthier and more close-knit community.”

If you enjoy garden-fresh produce and organic foods, we highly recommend visiting The Market. Stop by any Thursday between 3 and 6 p.m. and support your local farmers!

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Brooklyn W. and Jessica M.