The extension office has been working closely with the Bath County Farmer's Market group to provide more marketing opportunities, increased farm revenue and growth in the number of local producers who are participating.  Over the past 2 years a number of initiatives have taken place.  The farmer's market developed their own Facebook page, maintained by members of the market, where updates can be made almost instantly.  The page has allowed local consumers to view what produce and other products are at the market, allowing them to better plan their purchasing decisions.  The market has expanded its products from just fresh fruits and vegetables, to include value added items made locally, that enhance the market and attract a more diversified group of shoppers.  Thirdly, the market has established an indoor marketing program from October through December.  This has allowed our producers to expand their offerings and provide shopping opportunities during a number of holidays such as halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.  The farmer's market continues to accept both WIC and Sr. coupons, providing more opportunity to both market participants and to the public for fresh, wholesome foods.  The improvements and changes that have taken place in the market have increased net income to those participating.  In conversations with our vendors, there has been a two fold increase on receipts in 2018 and 2019 over the 2017 marketing season.  The number of people selling at the market has increased from 8 in 2017 to 21 in 2019.  This fall, the market committee has instituted special weekends, such as apple/pumpkin day and farmer's market sampling day, customer appreciation day and the Power of Produce, which they hope will continue to grow the market and attract more growers for next season.  Of all the ways the market has promoted themselves, the most successful, according to the group, is their presence on social media.  This tool alone seems to account for more than 75% of the growth the market has experienced and shows the power that this type of tool can have.  There is a demand for fresh and local products.  The challenge is figuring out how to put the consumer and the grower together.