The Rowan County Farmers Market has been in affect in Rowan County since the 70's and has survived several moves and reiterations over the years. However, within the last few years it has been brought to my attention by both previous vendors and customers that there is a lack of variety within the market. The goal was to establish another market within Rowan County that could include a variety of different producers, crafters, and home bakers, and be more accessible to those throughout the county. 

Myself and the new market manager worked with a variety of stakeholders and entities within both the state and county to allow this market to come to fruition. This included registering the market with KDA and Kentucky Proud, reaching out to sponsors within the county to provide funding and advertisement supplies, and working with the local Tractor Supply to  secure an area that the market could be set up. 

Through word of mouth and advertising the new market, a variety of vendors registered to be members of this new market. Vendors range of freeze dried treats, handmade wood creations, baked goods, and traditional produce. Through this season, starting from May 1st the market continues to attract customers and possible vendors for next years season. All of the vendors within the market continue to express how busy the market has been and has been an extremely successful endeavor thus far. 

With the current season coming to a close at the end of October, the hope is to take the information that we have received over this first season and continue to build and improve this market and continue to provide a variety of commodities and produce to the people of Rowan County.