Author: Brian Jeffiers
Planning Unit: Johnson County CES
Major Program: Horticulture, Commercial
Plan of Work: Livestock and Crops
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
The Johnson County Farmers' Market has always provided strong revenue streams for producers, but the growing use of social media platforms for selling has created a real challenge for producers who sell off the farm. At the same time, a large market segment--low-income families--continues to struggle to locate affordable sources for fresh produce.
With the guidance of the County Extension Agent and Program Assistant for Agriculture & Natural Resources, both needs are now being met. The market implemented EBT technology for the first time ever, providing an opportunity for growers to capture SNAP and PEBT benefits. These two revenue streams were complemented by a new Facebook page exclusive to the market, and together these efforts helped the market generate over $12,000 in sales, providing backing and data that can help the group leverage additional marketing assistance and other resources in the future.
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