Farmers markets
Local governments can invest in this strategy using State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
- This strategy can help promote healthy childhood environments. The U.S. Department of Treasury has indicated that strategies that help achieve this outcome are eligible for the use of Fiscal Recovery Funds.
- Investments in this strategy are SLFRF-eligible as long as they are made in qualified census tracts or are designed to assist populations or communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
Program overview
Providing settings for direct sale from farms to consumers: Farmers markets offer a designated physical space for vendors from local farms to sell agricultural products directly to consumers on a regular basis. Having fresh produce available at local markets can improve consumers’ access to healthy foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.
Flexibility in administration: Farmers markets may be organized under a variety of business structures, including as nonprofits, corporations, LLCs, cooperatives, and more. Often, farmers markets exist as part of regional networks or function with support of local government or nonprofit organizations. Each market typically has a market manager to enforce bylaws and manage day-to-day operations. Individual markets determine their own guidelines for which vendors are allowed to participate, what goods will be sold, and which forms of payment to accept. Many markets accept cash, debit or credit cards, and SNAP or WIC benefits.
Subject to local zoning and permitting regulations: In areas where farmers markets are defined as an allowed use in the zoning code, farmers markets may operate without a permit. However, in jurisdictions without this provision, farmers markets must typically obtain a land use permit. In addition to zoning requirements, markets may need health or business permits to conduct business, with specific criteria determined by local policies. Subject to the guidelines of a given market, vendors may also be required to apply for certification by the state department of agriculture or local health department.
Direct support for the local economy: Purchasing directly from local farmers removes intermediaries and ensures that farmers receive a larger portion of the money that people spend. Successful farmers markets can also bring additional business to the stores and businesses around them, as they tend to draw significant consumer foot traffic that may not otherwise exist.
- Cost per Participant
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Not available
Multiple studies with less rigorous designs provide some evidence that farmers markets increase access to healthy foods and the availability of fresh produce in food deserts.
- A 2018 research synthesis found that farmers markets can improve access to fruits and vegetables.
Identify a safe, accessible, feasible location: Farmers markets can only take place in locations where zoning and permitting laws allow for their operation. It is also important to consider the safety, convenience, and accessibility of a location. Proximity to public transit options, for example, can expand the audience of potential shoppers.
Consider different funding options: Farmers markets can receive financial support from a variety of sources: local governments, nonprofits, community groups, or the federal government. This funding can support the logistical needs of a new market as well as provide outreach, training, and technical support to local market administrators.
Accept a variety of payment methods: Expanding the payment options available to consumers at farmers markets broadens access to a wider range of customers and can increase vendors’ profits. This expansion may include technical support to allow for debit or credit card payments and systems to accept SNAP or WIC coupons. Farmers markets can apply to the USDA to be approved to accept SNAP benefits and will be provided with Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) equipment to accept those payments.
Engage with the community: Both in their inception and maintenance, the success of farmers markets is shaped by their engagement with community members. Community input should be used to evaluate possible locations and operating hours, as well as to understand what types of products are most in demand for a specific community. Intentional efforts to attract and welcome members of marginalized communities and lower socioeconomic status may help remove perceived barriers to entry. Finally, publicly available nutrition education and cooking classes can be an effective way to encourage people to shop at their local farmers markets.