South of the James Farmers Market Survey

The information below was passed to me by David Hathcock and has some interesting information about who is coming out to our farmers market. There was also a recent article on RTD about farmers markets in general. Post your Farmers Market pictures here & here)

In just three years, the South of the James Market at Forest Hill Park has become a major regional attraction, and an important economic resource, according to a survey performed Saturday at the market.

The survey indicated than more than 1,500 customers visited the market, representing more than 30 zip codes. Visitors reported zip codes from as far away as Newport News. The bulk of the market-goers (37%) came from the 23225 zip code, representing the immediate neighborhood, but 20% of the customers surveyed came from outside the City of Richmond zip code list. Every zip code in the city was represented.

The market continues to be an important economic resource as well, with more than 75 vendors regularly at the market on Saturday mornings from 8-noon. In addition to regular over the counter sales, a number of community supported agriculture outlets (CSA) are also using the market as a delivery point to subscribers. Vendors at the market come from as far away as Westmoreland County of the Northern Neck to Prince Edward County near Farmville. Vendors are selling goods as disparate as organic fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs and poultry, artisan breads and cheeses, handmade crafts and pottery, and locally roasted coffee.

The market is sponsored by Fourth District Council Member Kathy Graziano, and managed by the Market Umbrella. The market location is rented from the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.