Spreading the Word on Missouri Farmers' Markets

Consumers are expressing a renewed interest in buying food directly from the farmer or grower in their local areas. One reason for this consumer change is the new awareness of the importance of fresh vegetables and fruit in the diet, which are creating opportunities for marketing local produce to consumers through farmers’ markets. Also, the economic opportunities and rewards of the markets in a community’s development are being realized from community leaders.

(Photo: Webb City, Missouri Farmers' Market)

Missouri Farmers’ Markets have seen a great increase over the past 10 years. History of number of farmers’ markets listed in the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Farmers’ Market Directories:
2005 - 112
2004 - 97
2003 - 93
2002 - 77
2001 - 86
2000 - 81
1999 - 75
1998 - 63
1997 - 53

Being that it’s summertime…farmers’ markets across Missouri are in full swing right now. It’s the perfect time for you to visit your local market and support your local community and farmers.

To find a local market near you, please visit the Missouri Farmers’ Market Directory or the AgriMissouri site for more information.

If your community would like assistance in organizing a farmers' market or know of a farmers' market that is not listed in the Missouri Department of Agriculture's Farmers' Market Directory, please contact:

Lane McConnell
Ag. Promotions Specialist
Missouri Department of Agriculture
1616 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 630
Jefferson City, MO 65102
(573) 526-4984
E-mail: Lane.McConnell@mda.mo.gov