Farmers Markets: More than Corn and Tomatoes - Using the Seven Capitals Framework for Market Growth & Success
Agricultural Economics & Community Development
Lindie Huffman
ANR Agent
University of Kentucky
Falmouth
Abstract
Farmers’ Markets are more than merely a place to peddle produce. These community gathering spaces are a place to celebrate innovation, creativity, and ingenuity. The Pendleton County Farmers’ Market is a rural market located in Northern Kentucky with a county population of 14,000. As a limited food access county, residents drive more than 25 miles to chain grocery stores outside of the county. The local Farmers’ Market (PCFM) has operated since the late 1980s but has seen tremendous growth over the last decade under the leadership of #lindiecountyagent. With a focus on cultivating a family atmosphere for both customers and vendors alike, the market has blossomed into a thriving center for food access, agricultural awareness, and community. Growing from three vendors in 2012 to thirty-four vendors in 2022, while also establishing permanent roots with an 89% grant-funded permanent market pavilion, the market is thriving with community as its core value. This rural market is special and considered a leader in creative placemaking through community engagement events. Let’s talk about impacts and outcomes through innovative extension programming utilizing the Seven Capitals Community Framework as a guide to measuring market success, growing local markets, and creating place and space for people to gather. All while “keeping farmers farming and keeping families fed,” the personal mission of Lindie Huffman, Pendleton County ANR Extension Agent.
Authors: Lindie Huffman
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Lindie Huffman ANR Agent, University of Kentucky, Kentucky, 41040