In June 2020, Community Food Lab launched a self-funded study of North Carolina farmers markets, to intentionally learn from farmers markets’ recent experiences and grow their impact through shared innovation and evidence-based best practice. This study was designed to analyze experiences across NC and develop actionable recommendations for long-term resilience and racial equity in farmers markets.
From June 29 to July 22, 2020, we surveyed NC farmers market managers about their COVID-19 experiences and strategies, approaches to racial equity, and initiatives around food access. We also collected input on whether markets were performing as well as, worse than, or better than the 2019 season, opening the possibility of identifying successful measures.
With 78 unique responses, our survey achieved a roughly 45% response rate among the estimated 175 total farmers markets in NC. Our conclusions and action recommendations emerged through a combined analysis of our collected survey data, literature and best practice review, and advisor input on racial equity and policy.
In October 2020, we published a report of our findings and action recommendations. We hope these can provide effective and meaningful steps toward a more just and resilient farmers market community.
Note - The initial distribution of the summary presentation contained a data error: on page 6, the correct percentage of farmers markets with BIPOC in leadership is 23%. This has been corrected and downloads on this page are updated!