“SUPPORTING WEST VIRGINIA FARMERS MARKET GROWTH” Our Children, Our Future Policy Symposium

The West Virginia Farmers Market Association is a membership-based organization. Our all-volunteer Board is made up of farmers market vendors and organizers around the state. By Farmers Markets For Farmers Markets “The mission of the WVFMA is to provide resources and support connections that enhance the economic growth and sustainability of West Virginia farmers markets.” Policy Committee = WVFFC Working Group! WHO ARE WE?

Entry-point to the local foods economy for young or beginning farmers – very accessible, even to low-volume producers. Economic impact – beautification, community building, healthy food access. Small business and cottage foods incubator – a place to test products, grow customer base and develop a brand. Healthy Food access– Bringing fresh, local foods to WV Families WHY ARE FARMERS MARKETS IMPORTANT TO MY COMMUNITY?

FARMERS MARKET SUCCESS STORIES

The number of farmers markets in WV has roughly tripled since We now have over 90 markets operating at 110 locations! GROWTH

Estimated minimum $4 million direct impact between July- December 2012 alone! ECONOMIC IMPACT

Consignment models, year-round markets and online ordering – oh my! NEW BUSINESS MODELS EMERGING

Farmers Markets are a social and community focal point! THRIVING COMMUNITIES

FARMERS MARKET PERMITTING ISSUES

Current permits weren’t designed for farmers market vendors – creates confusion for vendors AND sanitarians. Because of the way county health departments are structured, interpretation is inconsistent between counties. Permits don’t transfer across county lines. Additional requirements and fees are sometimes imposed on the county level. They can add up! The fee scale is too high – inappropriate to charge the same for large grocery stores as small tailgate vendors. THE ISSUE

We aim to create a new, more affordable, health permit type specifically for farmers markets that would be issued on the county level; but will have the option of a statewide endorsement that would be recognized across county lines. This would solve the problem s of… Cost County-county transferability Interpretation inconsistencies on the part of local sanitarians *Working on the issue of additional permit requirements THE SOLUTION

Healthy Food Access + Economic Development + Positive Social Interactions = Thriving Communities! How does will this impact WV families?

Learn More about the Farmers Market Policy Committee Contact… Elizabeth Spellman Executive Director Kelly Crane Executive Director