Our LaRue County Farmers Market has struggled throughout the years due to the proximity of other strong Farmers Markets. This was our first year to set up in the LaRue County High School parking lot which was closer to high traffic areas, the school's summer feeding program site. We have continued to increase access to, and the amount of, locally produced foods based on sales, number of vendors, number of customers, and redemption and usage of voucher programs. Vendors and produce sales have continued to increase each year of operation. The 2021 market had 11 vendors and the market averaged over 175 people who would attend each week. 

It was our fourth season implementing the Senior Farmers Market Voucher Program and it was great success with a 96% utilization rate and 80 seniors received funds to purchase local fruits and vegetables. Our EFNEP assistant and agriculture agent shared nutrition information and gardening information with customers at every market. We worked with LaRue County Food Service Director to have farmers market vouchers inserted into summer feeding program lunches to encourage healthy eating and promote 4H day camps to our low income households.

Not only have sales continued to increase, we have also reduced the risk of selling produce by requiring vendors to go through Produce Best Practices Training and Private pesticide applicator training. 4 of our vendors were also able to sell produce to local restaurants as a result of them setting up at our farmers market. 3 vendors have successfully developed CSA share programs with customers that they established at the farmers market.