NATCHEZ — Alcorn State University’s Extension Program has marked new, yet temporary territory for its farmer’s market.

ASU Marketing Coordinator Helen D. Brooks said Thursday the market will have its grand reopening in a vacant building at 199 St. Catherine St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 12.

Brooks said the building is located adjacent to the historic Forks of the Road.

“We’re going to be there throughout the end of the year,” Brooks said. “We’re in the process of looking for a permanent location, but we have to have a place because of the market’s importance to the community and the seniors.”

Following the grand re-opening, the market will be open Thursday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. during production season.

Local farmers and vendors interested in selling their produce or homemade wares at the market can purchase a 10-by-10 space for $10.

“Our slogan for the Natchez farmer’s market is ‘Live Well. Eat Well,’” Brooks said. “It’s a a place where the community can have an opportunity to have fresh-grown produce at their doorstep.”

Brooks said 15 to 20 farmers are expected for the grand reopening.

The market was previously located at the former Main Street Marketplace Café downtown, but the site was purchased by St. Mary Basilica for its new family life center.

Brooks said approximately 500 seniors benefited from the market’s senior nutrition program last year, and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce is set to begin distributing vouchers for the program next month.

“There’s a possibility there may be an increased number of vouchers in the area because of the redemption rate,” Brooks said. “More seniors are hearing about the program and more want to be apart of the program.”

For more information, call 601-445-7976.