Greenback farmers

Greenback farmers' market still in business at Greenback Depot

The Greenback farmers market that opened in January continues to sell everything from fresh eggs and tilapia to hand-woven baskets and eclectic jewelry.

The vendors opened up the market in the Greenback Depot on Jan. 11. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday through May 3.

Organizer Trish Dean said business has been brisk on some days.

This is the first year for the market here, but definitely not the last, she said. There are plans to return here next winter.

Step into this finely remodeled train depot and you’ll find farmers selling their fresh eggs, homemade pasta, home-baked breads, cakes, beef, sausage, preserves, winter vegetables including kale and Dean’s aquaponic crops and tilapia. Potatoes and sweet potatoes are early crops and more will be ready in coming days.

Dean and her husband Jeff own Eco-Rich Farms in Greenback. They grow lettuces and herbs using an aquaponic food production systems and also raise tilapia.

If crafts are more your thing, the market has those covered as well. There are handmade greeting cards, handmade bird houses, pottery and a woodturner who creates unique items. Handcrafted copper and brass and rustic jewelry can also be found here each week. Soap, body wash and lotions made from goat’s milk are stocked as well.

All of the vendors are local and make their own products to sell.

Dean said a trip here has become a weekly ritual for many in the community. After shopping, some enjoy a fantastic lunch at the Greenback Drug Store lunch counter across the street.

As for the venue, Dean said she couldn’t be happier. The depot is spacious for all of the vendors and being inside means they can sell no matter the weather.

“I wish I had thought about this before,” she said. “It is so different.”

Music plays as shoppers make their selections. There is also a coffee bar to serve up hot drinks.

For those shoppers who have already been, Dean encourages them to come back. New vendors have been added over the last few weeks.

And those who haven’t made it to the market yet — time is winding down. After May 3 the farmers market will move to an outdoor area at the Tellico Village Yacht Club in Loudon. That one will open May 10 and last into October. The market has been held at Tellico Village for at least four years.

The winter market was started because farmers and crafters needed a place to sell their goods and because shoppers miss the market experience when most typically close in October.

If You Go

A winter farmers' market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday through May 3 at the Greenback Depot, located at 6736 Morganton Road, Greenback. For more information, contact Trish Dean at 865-856-3800.