Some 200 farmers markets in Iowa provide direct marketing outlets for fresh locally grown produce; baked goods; and a variety of products from eggs to meat, wine, cheese and crafts. Staff within IDALS’ Ag Diversification and Marketing Bureau provides technical assistance to community organizers to assist them in establishing, developing and sustaining farmers markets in their communities. IDALS has created the Iowa Farmers Market Development Manual to assist community leaders wishing to establish a market in their community or find ideas to strengthen an existing market. For managers and vendors, the Bureau can offer materials, resources and contacts to help them in the management, promotion, improvement, and participation in markets.
Along with the Iowa Farmers Market Association, the Ag Diversification and Marketing Bureau co-sponsors the annual Farmers Market Workshop geared to managers and vendors. This one day workshop typically held in February offers attendees a wide range of information of interest to stakeholders.
IDALS also offers the public an online Farmers Market Directory. The directory is searchable by city and county. The Iowa produce availability calendar can be found here.
Details from an IDALS economic impact study of the state’s farmers markets from 2009 is still very much relevant. A copy of the study can be found here and a downloadable brochure is available as well.
Information on the Iowa WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Programs can be found here - or contact the State Horticulturist, Paul Ovrom, at paul.ovrom@iowaagriculture.gov or 515-242-6239.
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