Heading into the Offseason

For the remaining farmers markets in the Inland Northwest, there are just a couple of weeks left so soon planning will begin for next year.

Kathy Hanson with the Market at the Parkway said it’s important for any potential vendor, whether they’ve been in the market or not, to pay attention to vendor meetings that often happen after the start of the year.

“That gives farmers time, if they get in the market, to get things planted. It’s a little late but they can get started on things.”

Hanson said there are some advantages to already having been in the market because they can get access to applications sooner, but it’s important that the market manager has contact info for any potential vendor.

Hanson said she also works with growers on ideas of how they might attract more customers.

“I try to encourage farmers to not grow what everybody else is growing. If everybody is providing the same thing then their profit goes down for one thing. So anything that’s kind of unique is a real plus.”

Hanson said she also loves the idea of vendors sharing a space with other growers and either alternate weeks, or shift based on growing seasons.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.