MAPLE GROVE, Minn. – The pure plethora of farmers markets throughout the region has resulted in some closings of smaller, less-established options.
You could call it a farmers market “market” correction. And those in the field – both literally and figuratively – say it comes down to simple supply and demand.
“Because there are so many in so many towns, there aren’t enough customers to support a market in every single small town,” said Jenna Nelson who co-owns Dave Nelson Greenhouse and is a board member of the Central Minnesota Growers Association.
According to the Minnesota Farmers Market Association, there were about 75 markets in Minnesota in the early 2000s. Today, there are between 250 to 300.
But don’t worry, market workers say, farmers markets will continue to flourish – especially those that are well established and full of vendors.
“We’re here for our customers. We have longtime growers who have been here with us 30, 40, 50 years. Three, four generations of farmers who’ve been here. And lots of people are saying they still want to keep doing this,” said Mao Lee, the assistant manager at the Minneapolis Farmers Market.
Kirsten Bansen Weigle with Maple Grove Farmers Market agrees. She even suggests those worried about losing a favorite market simply become part of the solution.
“There’s one really great, great way to make sure that they’re assisting and that is to shop a farmer’s market. So get out there and find a market that really fits with your schedule, with your expectations. There are many, many to choose from in the metro area, and we highly recommend all of them. It’s a great way to get your food – buy direct from the grower,” Weigle said.