Creating a 
Farmers' Market Organization

A community starts a farmers' market for various purposes.  A farmers' market provides:

• a farm direct opportunity for local farmers

• access to local food for a community

• a venue for civic participation

• a forum for people to meet in a central location

• an opportunity for neighborhoods to appreciate and support Oregon agriculture.  

No matter what the purpose, most markets have key documents to help organize the market's activities.  

Farmers' Markets 
Organizational Documents

• Market Rules for Vendors

• Articles of Incorporation

• ByLaws 

• Market Budget

• Required Permits (i.e. street  closures, street signage, etc.)

• Market Liability Insurance

• Board Liability Insurance 

The first challenge for most markets is finding a site. Once a site is secured, selling the market to farmers requires educating them on the market's location, demographics, stall/membership fees, time of operation and the publicity plan. Engaging the community to support local farmers with their dollars means not only creating a place to buy fresh produce picked within less than 24 hours, but also an opportunity to educate shoppers on the importance of Oregon agriculture to our state. 

OFMA's Market Resource Library provides links, contacts and excellent reading resources to help jump start a market.  OFMA also welcomes your questions. (info@oregonfarmersmarkets.org)