WVFMA
The West Virginia Farmers Market Association
The West Virginia Farmers Market Association (WVFMA) is a statewide membership based organization designed to strengthen farmers markets and enhance their surrounding communities. The WVFMA provides resources and technical assistance to farmers markets through our website and other communication channels. The WVFMA works with various partners across the state to provide farmers markets with relatable and relevant resources to address their needs.
In 2007, a group of farmers and farm advocates were awarded a grant through the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Initial guidance for the group was provided by the WVU Extension Service and Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry and Consumer Sciences. Since inception, the WVFMA has been committed to strengthening the viability of farmers markets across West Virginia.
Over time the WVFMA grew to include more than 60 farmers markets across the state. In 2012, the WVFMA began a system of analytical data collection known as the annual West Virginia Farmers Market Census. This census exposed a critical need for a standardized data collection system for all farmers markets in West Virginia. The WVFMA developed the data collection toolkit to assist markets with the task.
Highlighted Accomplishments
Some previous projects developed and implemented by the WVFMA include:
- How to Start a Farmers Market Toolkit
- Marketing Your Market
- Market Manager Training Series
- New Vendors Guide
- New Vendor Recruitment and Training Series
- The Gleaning Project
- Farm Fresh WV Marketing Campaign (with WV Food & Farm Coalition)
- Mini Market Hub Project
Farmers Market Favorites
Featured Projects
What is FARMacy? The FARMacy program addresses the state’s ongoing battle with chronic illness thanks to a grant awarded to the West
POP Clubs The Power Of Produce (POP) Club is a nationally recognized children's program started at the Oregon City Farmers Market
Make use of all good produce The West Virginia Farmers Market Association and the WV Appalachian Foodshed Project (AFP) are pleased to