Farmers’ markets are growing as consumers are beginning to realize that locally raised food is available, affordable and tasty! There are over 60 markets listed for your information on the WVFarm2u website. Scattered around the state, most are seasonal but several are open year-round.

The Extension Service of West Virginia University held the second workshop of a pilot program being held to help the participating farmers’ markets improve their structure and functionality Monday, December 3.  Meeting in Weston at the Jackson’s Mill State Fire Training Academy, involved farmers and consumers met from the following markets: Buchannon-Upshur, Berkeley Springs, Putnam County, Lewisburg, Monroe County, Barbour County, Pocahontas County and the Wild Ramp Market in Huntington.

Much of the meeting involved the business organization of the markets and each market had a different system that reflected its mission as well as its members. 

Additional discussion involved the role of various marketing strategies and the need to modernize the approach to include social media to reach younger segments of the population.

One other benefit was also achieved. When groups that are scattered around West Virginia meet and recognize that they have similar goals, new friendships are formed and ideas flow. Something practiced at one location may be something another market wants to try.