The problem

-In February of 2023 I held the first meeting for the Riverview Farmers Market. I had one previous member attend. She informed me of the past issues that they had ran into and that would need to be addressed prior to gaining more members. There were issues with insurance for producers and a lack of leadership within the market. 

The educational program response

-I attended the trainings for new market managers, and talked with many agents who were running markets currently. After the first meeting I had done research to see who in my community had participated in the market in previous years. I found the contact information for the members I could find to see if they would be interested in joining this year. After convincing some to just come to a meeting, I took all of this information that I had learned and ideas that agents have given me and convinced them how we could make this a wonderful opportunity for everyone. I taught a lot of members not only about marketing the farmers market, but marketing themselves to help engage with the community. 

The participants/target audience

-I had a lot of contact with members from previous years, as well as members of the community who have shopped previously. I worked a lot with our county judge to get our market back in the courthouse yard. It was a great way to get the community back downtown as well as bring other local businesses customers. 

Program impact or participant response.

-I am very proud to say that at the end of the 2023 season, we have 15 members of the Riverview Farmers Market! By working closely with the current and past members, working with the county judge, and working with our community partners, I was able to grow our market tremendously. These members have been dedicated and show up every week as well as attended many community events!