Arkansas’ farmers markets play a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economy, providing access to fresh produce in rural communities. Governor Sarah Sanders signed a proclamation recognizing June 9-15 as Arkansas Farmers Market Week, emphasizing the benefits of the 111 farmers markets for producers, consumers, and communities. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension Service works with growers, producers, and farmers market operators year-round to support their success by providing research-based tools and information.
For Arkansans living in communities without nearby grocery stores, farmers markets can be a vital source of fresh produce. Many markets accept EBT cards, allowing people to use SNAP benefits to buy food and participate in programs like Double Up Food Bucks. Farmer direct-to-consumer sales in Arkansas are valued at over $8.5 million, benefiting more than 1,400 farmers. The Division of Agriculture’s economics professor, Ron Rainey, guides markets in establishing and managing operations, and helps vendors with marketing strategies.
The Extension’s Local Regional & Safe Foods Team supports market managers and vendors by providing produce safety training, technical assistance on best practices, guidance on the Cottage Food Law, and webinars on produce safety and food processing. Resources such as Market Maker, a free online tool for farmers to promote their operations, and the National Ag Law Center for understanding legal issues in food marketing, are available. The team also offers workshops and extension resources related to farmers markets to further support the success of Arkansas’ agricultural producers and consumers.
