Interest in and demand for local foods continues to grow in Virginia and across the United States. The unprecedented demand for local and regionally identified foods has created a myriad of economic and social opportunities for agricultural producers and communities.

Community Supported Agriculture is a relatively new trend in agricultural production. As mid-sized farms are bought out by large-scale producers, the number of family farms is declining. In addition, produce travels an average of 1500 miles from producer to consumer. (2) There is a movement around the world to bring back a sense of community and to involve that community in the local production of vegetables. Farmers are now turning to consumers to share in the risk of production.

Starting a farmers market is a challenging task with numerous issues to be tackled and activities to sequence. While generating a customer and vendor base is clearly fundamental to the successful establishment of a farmers market, there are also key administrative foundations that should be established if the market is to get off on the right foot and have long-term viability.

Buying and eating locally grown foods – foods that are produced near you or in Virginia – offer numerous benefits for you and your community.

The Virginia Farm to Table Plan is an initiative that builds on the rich agricultural history and entrepreneurship of Virginia. Virginia’s overall food system directly impacts the survival and viability of farms and farmland; the economic development of rural and urban communities; the care, restoration and resilience of ecological resources such as local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay; and critical health issues. Therefore, the promotion of healthy farms and healthy food from farm to consumer table can have a positive impact on the common wealth and common good of Virginia.

The Virginia Farm to Table Plan is an initiative that builds on the rich agricultural history and entrepreneurship of Virginia. Virginia’s overall food system directly impacts the survival and viability of farms and farmland; the economic development of rural and urban communities; the care, restoration and resilience of ecological resources such as local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay; and critical health issues. Therefore, the promotion of healthy farms and healthy food from farm to consumer table can have a positive impact on the common wealth and common good of Virginia.