Strengthening Rural Communities Through Direct Marketing

Strengthening Rural Communities Through Direct Marketing

Summary

After several meetings with farmers and the advisory board, a number of activities were set in motion for 2004 – 2005. Advertising was increased and market events were planned. The outcome has been positive. The public’s attendance at the market has increased from the previous season and farmer/vendor attendance has increased. An additional midweek market was generated and marketing days and times were adjusted to fit the needs of farmers and vendors and customr flow.

Objectives/Performance Targets

The objectives of this project were to:
1. Provide younger generation and transitioning farmers (farmers looking for alternatives to tobacco and row crops) education on sustainable agriculture practices.
2. Provide younger generation and transitioning farmers the skills and opportunity to sell agricultural products at an established farmers market.
3. Provide participants education on marketing, nutrition, food preparation, preservation, and leadership skills.
4. Increase public access to local, sustainably produced food.

Accomplishments/Milestones

• New farmers and vendors are selling at the market.Increased product diversity is found at the market.

  Advertising has been increased on T.V., radio and the newspaper.

  Events have been planned such as a farmers’ breakfast, Strawberry Day with pancakes served to the public.

  The events and advertising have increased the public’s attendance to the market. Farmers and vendors have been pleased so far with this season’s marketing opportunities.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

Project participants believe there have been a number of positive outcomes from this project. One is that there are new farmers coming to sell product at the market, something that is needed as this is an established market operating for decades with an aging farmer/vendor population.

Second, farmers are selling most of the product that they bring.

Third, more people in the community have become aware that this market exists. In a number of instances, they too are becoming regulars at this market.

Collaborators: