Farmers' Market Returns to it's Roots with Permanent Pavilion

The Pendleton County Farmers' Market is a longstanding market (est. 1988) that has seen tremendous growth over the last ten years. In 2013 with just 6 vendors, the market found a new home in a vacant lot on Hwy 27. With leadership of county ag agent, market began finding ways to become more engaged with community, establishing a presence beyond a mere place to exchange goods. The market has returned home to a permanent location with a market pavilion.

Over the last 10 years, with increased guidance and support from the Pendleton County ANR Agent, the market has seen tremendous growth in vendors, total sales, and customer attendance. Additionally, the market group has taken on new leadership roles and worked to create a community stronghold in the local food economy and a place to celebrate community.

In 2018 the grant writing began to secure federal and state funds to construct the permanent facility on the Pendleton County Fairgrounds. $237,500 was received through three grants to fund 88% of the total project. The remaining 12% came from local donations from county organizations.

This project exemplifies the success of community collaborations and establishing a strong foundation in community development.

1. Strong community organization collaboration: PC Youth Fair Association, PC Farm Bureau, PC Rotary, PC Extension, PC Schools, PC Parks & Recreation, PC Fiscal Court.
2. Leadership Development: Farmers’ market leadership took on management of securing additional donations, contracts, project timeline. Over 576 volunteer hours were devoted to this project for an estimated economic impact of $16,439.04.
3. Extension Support: ANR Agent wrote the grants and developed relationships with key state & federal stakeholders to garner support for this needed project.
4. The market is a vital contributor to the local food economy of the limited food access county. Visibility has lead to increased attendance and awareness of the market.
5. Supporting family farms and local artisans, the market membership has increased to 36 vendors, from 3 vendors in 2012. Signifying a viable economic opportunity for local farms.
6. Creating a Center for Community Celebration: The market hosts various events centered around community health, agriculture awareness, food access, and so much more. Featured events; Sprouts Kids Club (every 2nd Saturday), KY Plate it Up Recipe Sampling (3rd Saturdays), Barket @ Market, Craftsmanship Showcase, Community Health Day, Zumba, Fitness for Produce, Paint Nights, etc.

The PCFM is more than just corn and tomatoes, it is a place for community to gather and celebrate Pendleton County Community Pride and is a viable marketplace for local farmers & artisans.