North Columbus News

On July 31, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) will help launch National Farmers Market Week in Ohio with an event at Pearl Market in downtown Columbus. The celebration, which runs from August 3 to 9, recognizes more than 300 farmers markets across the state.

CFAES aims to highlight the importance of farmers markets not only as sources of fresh produce but also as key contributors to local economies and rural communities. Christie Welch, a program specialist in direct agricultural marketing with Ohio State University Extension, emphasized the broad impact of these markets.

“Farmers markets are a triple win — a win for the producer, the customer and the community,” said Welch.

Welch brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a former small fruit farmer and vendor at Chillicothe Farmers Market. She noted that access to direct-to-consumer sales channels is vital for small and beginning farmers. According to Welch, Ohio has seen a 6.4% decrease in farmland over the past two decades, making such market opportunities critical for farm survival.

“Ohio is losing farms and farmland,” Welch said. “For small and beginning farmers, having access to a market channel that allows them to sell directly to consumers at retail prices is critical to staying in business.”

Through its Direct Food and Agricultural Marketing Team, Ohio State Extension offers training on pricing strategies, production costs, and customer engagement. These resources are designed to help farmers build profitable businesses while supporting strong local markets.

“We’re focused on making both farmers and markets more sustainable,” Welch said. “When a farmer is profitable, they’re more likely to stay engaged. And a strong market attracts more customers, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits the entire community.”

Farmers markets also play an increasing role in food access programs for low-income families and seniors. Currently, 119 farmers markets in Ohio accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits—a significant increase from just nine in 2008—and many participate in initiatives like Produce Perks or nutrition programs for seniors and women with children.

The collaboration between CFAES and groups like the Ohio Farmers Market Network dates back over ten years. The network was launched with support from The Ohio State University South Centers in 2008; it now operates independently but continues partnerships with CFAES.

“We recognize the challenges of shopping at a farmers market — limited hours, a smaller selection — but farmers markets are the only way to ensure that every dollar you spend goes right back into Ohio,” said Jaime Hadji of the Ohio Farmers Market Network.

“For us, ‘buying local’ isn’t just a slogan. It’s a commitment to ensuring that Ohio has generations of farmers and food makers, and that our local food system stays strong and resilient through all the changes we can’t control.”

The kickoff event at Pearl Market will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring efforts by both CFAES staff and community partners such as promoting statewide campaigns like the “$40 for Farmers Challenge.” This initiative encourages residents across Ohio to spend $40 at their local market during National Farmers Market Week—a move organizers say supports producers while boosting local economies.

“Farmers markets bring people together,” Welch said. “They’re places of learning, connection and resilience. And they’re one of the best tools we have to keep Ohio growing.”