Marie McGruder of McGruder Farms, LLC in Akron, recently visited the Hale County Alabama Extension Office to receive her Alabama Growers Permit. McGruder plans to grow culinary herbs alongside other seasonal fruits and vegetables. With an Alabama Growers Permit, farmers can sell directly to consumers without paying licensing fees or sales tax for raw agricultural commodities raised on their farm.
With this permit, growers can sell throughout the state of Alabama, allowing farmers to expand their marketing to other communities and increasing the availability of fresh, local produce. The permit encapsulates the sale of farm raised goods including eggs, ornamental plants, and vegetable transplants. However jams, jellies, breads, and meats are not eligible as they are valueadded products.
For those interested in seeking a growers permit may only obtain one in person at their local Extension office. From there, Extension agents will record and forward the permit to Alabama’s Department of Agriculture and Industries’ Farmers Market Authority for those growers interested in participating in the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Then, share a copy of the growers permit with a farmers market manager where one wishes to sell. Growers selling in multiple counties do not need obtain more than one certificate. The permit also allows the producer to sell raw agricultural commodities at other locations, such as roadside stands and festivals. Contact the Hale County Extension Office for more information at 334-624-8710.
