Understanding Farmers Markets
Farmers' Markets Rules, Regulations and Opportunities – The National Agricultural Law Center - This study examines the structure and operation of farmers' markets in the United States, giving special attention to the legal and regulatory issues that may shape their operation.
Establishing and Operating a Community Farmers’ Market – University of Kentucky Extension -- Community leaders are realizing the economic opportunities and rewards of farmers’ markets in the realm of community (metro and non-metro) development.
Starting a Farmers' Market – University of Florida Extension -- There are many details that separate great farmers' markets from struggling or mediocre markets.
What Works at a Farmers’ Market? – Small Farm Center, University of California Extension -- First, the produce must be fresh! High quality is essential to keeping the market attractive to weekly customers. Commodities are best when picked the day of the sale. Customers like to see carrots with the tops on and melons that are fully ripe.
Farmers Market Facts – AMS USDA -- Farmers markets, now an integral part in the urban/farm linkage, have continued to rise in popularity, mostly due to the growing consumer interest in obtaining fresh products directly from the farm.
Selling Fresh Fruit at Farmers’ Markets – Small Farm Center, University of California Extension -- There is a good demand for real tree ripened fruit. The demand is small in the total picture but growing (in niche markets). Farmers' markets present a good opportunity for a small grower. There are some advantages and disadvantages to this kind of marketing.
Farmers’ Markets – Colorado State University Extension -- Careful organization and planning is essential in the development of a farmers' market.
Food Safety for Farmer’s Market Venders – University of Nebraska -- Vendors at Farmers' Markets are responsible for the safety of the products they offer for sale.
Farmers Markets – Sustainable Agriculture Network - Many customers prefer to buy produce from farmers they know and trust.
Farmers Markets Marketing and Business Guide (pdf) - Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas (ATTRA) -- This publication is a resource for those who want to organize a farmers market or sell directly to the consumer at one.
A Guide to Starting, Operating, and Selling in Farmers Markets - Arizona State University -- A direct farm marketing and tourism handbook.
Farmers Market Guide – University of Missouri -- A charge publication based on the experiences of the organizers of farmers' markets.
The New Farmer's Market: Farm-Fresh Ideas for Producers, Managers and Communities – A book for purchase.
Farmers Market Resources
Farmer Direct Marketing Bibliography - USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service -- This site complies a bibliography of various documents concerning farmer direct marketing.
Farmer's Market Online - This Web site offers cyber "booth space" for producers who are marketing directly to consumers.
Farmers Market Price Reports - Ag Marketing Service, USDA -- Wholesale and farmers’ market prices are listed at this site.
Find a Farmers Market in Your State – Ag Marketing Service, USDA -- This web site provides a national directory of farmers markets listed by state. It includes other helpful links.
Alphabetical Farmer’s Market Listing – LocalHarvest.