By Dr. Theresa Nartea, Associate Professor & Extension Specialist in Marketing & Agribusiness

June 1st kicks off hurricane season…and farmers market season. Two harbingers of summer that could have deadly consequences under the right (or wrong!) circumstances.

Did you know windblown canopies are the #1 cause of property loss and injury at outdoor events where canopies are widely used? Think farmers markets and roadside farmer stands. That’s why vendors need to prepare now, before it’s too late. Here are 3 tent tips to help you prevent injury and/or property loss at your farmers market during hurricane season:

1. USE MANAGEABLE WEIGHTS -

   Aim for 40 lbs. per tent leg (10x10).

2. SECURE UMBRELLAS -

   Use 50 lb. weights and tilt into the wind.

3. ANCHOR THE WEIGHTS -

   Secure your weights in the ground using appropriate anchors.

To learn more about farmers market display tips, including safety measures for you and your customers, check out this presentation to the Virginia Farmers Market Association by VSU’s Virginia Cooperative Extension Specialist Dr. Theresa Nartea. For more information contact Dr. Nartea at tnartea@vsu.edu.