According to CEDIK data, 249 Rockcastle County Farms produce on less than 50 acres of land and 2% of crops grown in the county are fruits and vegetables. There are only 2 grocery stores in the county which creates a perfect market for farmers to sell fresh produce to local consumers. Because of this need, the Rockcastle County Farmer’s Market and others have saw opportunity for growth.

This past market season, there were 8 total vendors who sold a total of $27,284. This is money that stays in the local economy, which could increase production for these farmers next growing season. The ripple growth effect of this market has caused others in the community to take notice and developed some community partnerships.

The local soil conservation district, fiscal court, industrial committee, Agriculture Development Board, Rockcastle Kentucky Farm Bureau, and state GOAP have all agreed to invest in the future of the local farmer’s market. Plans have been made to create and build a farmer’s market pavilion that would make the location nicer for the community and convenient for vendors. A total of $200,000 has been invested in this project by all the above listed collaborators with a goal of construction starting this spring. We expect an increase in vendors, producers, and consumers for the next growing season.