ARARAT, Va. — Farmers will have a new outlet for selling their crops, while consumers get the chance to buy fresh produce and other items, through a first-ever effort being launched in Ararat.

The new farmers market will start this coming Saturday and continue each week throughout the harvest season, according to Janet Epperson, an official of Dan River Park and market organizer.

Its home base is the recreation park, at 419 Raven Rock Road near Blue Ridge Elementary School. Hours for the “ongoing venture” are 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday, Epperson said.

“Our hope is that we can provide an outlet for our local farmers to make some extra money,” she explained, “as well as provide the citizens of the area with fresh, locally-grown food — some of it organic — at a reasonable price.”

The new farmers market is one of several recent attempts to promote commercial and cultural attractions of Ararat and other southwestern Patrick County communities, coming on the heels of a heritage festival and jamboree in May.

“We’ve got a farmers market in Stuart, but it’s a long way for people to go to buy a cucumber,” Epperson said of the county seat about 25 miles away.

She said the fledgling market in Ararat represents a way for producers in that area to reach more consumers directly. “It’s a chance for them to make some extra money that they might not make without such an outlet.”

There is no fee for farmers to sell items at the park. “So you can’t go wrong on the price,” Epperson added.

The organizer was unsure Monday how many farmers would be participating during the market debut Saturday. “It depends on what they have,” she said, pointing out that given the universe of crops involved, some have nothing to bring in at this point.

Throughout its duration, the market is expected to offer locally-produced fruits, vegetables, flowers, crafts and foods.

Contact Tom Joyce at tjoyce@mtairynews.com or at 719-1924.