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POLK COUNTY—In the wake of ongoing disaster relief efforts, the Polk County Farmers Markets have decided to remain closed for the rest of October. This closure period will allow everyone involved to focus on their families and the recovery process. However, plans are in place for upcoming events and markets to support the community as it rebuilds.

The Columbus Winter Market will begin on November 2 and continue through April. It will be located behind Iron Key Brewing at 135 Locust St. and run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market will be held every first and third Friday of each month. Unfortunately, there will be no Saluda Winter Market this year. However, the community can look forward to the Saluda Holiday Market on November 30.

The next Friends of Ag Breakfast is scheduled for November 20 from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. at the Green Creek Community Center. This event aims to bring together agricultural community members to provide support and discuss the path forward after the recent challenges faced by rural areas due to Hurricane Helene.

The impact of this hurricane has been particularly severe in rural communities, where agriculture serves as the region’s lifeblood. Farmers have suffered significant losses in terms of crops, livestock, and essential infrastructure.

While it is still too early to estimate the total agricultural losses incurred, understanding the region’s agrarian profile can provide insight into the recovery process. For more information on agricultural disaster resources, visit the NC Co-Op Extension’s website at https://ncdisaster.ces.ncsu.edu/.