Farmers’ Markets Resources
Since SMADC’s inception, it has assisted farmers’ markets in the region through promotion (advertising, brochures), advice for start-up markets, soliciting farmers for markets and acting as a conduit of information for regulations and other pertinent information.
SMADC Promotional Market Grants
Southern Maryland farmers’ markets that feature predominantly Southern Maryland farm products are eligible for SMADC promotional market grants. These grants help offset the expenses of promoting the market with advertisements, promotional days, etc.
Other Farmers’ Market Support
In the past, SMADC has conducted surveys of consumers at various markets in Southern Maryland to better understand the economic and social dynamics of local farmers’ markets and their influence on their local food and business communities. SMADC was also instrumental in making Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) equipment to farmers market, allowing them to expand sales to consumers using these funds.
Maryland Market News
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Agriculture Statistics Service (NASS) and the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Office of Marketing provides current unbiased market news in order to assist in the marketing of Maryland commodities. These reports contain pricing, volume, quality, and other market data on agricultural products in specific market areas.