Supporting Local Farmers' Markets

Did you know that the produce in grocery stores travels an average of 1,500 miles before it ends up on your plate? Furthermore, the USDA estimates that on average, a farmer only earns 17.4 cents for every dollar spent on a food item. Compare these numbers to your local farmers' market, where the produce is grown within a 50-mile radius and the farmer or producer earns an average of 85 cents on every dollar. Farmers' markets around the U.S. offer consumers an opportunity to support local growers and businesses, eat healthier, and connect with community members, all in one place.  The Sedalia Area Farmers' Market was established in 2009 by co-founders Bev Rollings and Brenda Raetz. Brenda oversees the day-to-day operations as the market manager and Bev currently serves as the treasurer. Matt Tennill and his wife, Kim, own Triple H Family Farms in Marshall, Missouri, specializing in fresh produce including greens, heirloom tomatoes, root vegetables, and honey. Matt was recently named president of the Sedalia Area Farmers' Market board of directors.  If you need more incentive on why you should shop at your local farmers' market, tune into this special panel episode to learn more.  What you'll learn:  A simplified overview of how farmers' markets work and the benefits of buying produce from local markets The criteria for becoming a vendor at the Sedalia Area Farmer's Market and how to get the process started How the Sedalia Area Farmers' Market helps market their vendors and share the story of local farmers, growers and producers  The logistics behind the set up of the market from week to week and the family-oriented, kid-friendly activities available on a monthly basis The individual and community health benefits of shopping at farmers' markets How the Missouri Grown program and Community Supported Agriculture program support vendors across the state Details about the 2022 season of the Sedalia Farmers' Market and the resources consumers can use to connect with the market online