Hartford's Agriculture and Farmland Protection Planning Committee is exploring how direct marketing could benefit the town's farmers, allowing farms to retain a larger share of the profits on their agricultural products.
Direct-to-consumer sales is a way for farmers to get higher prices for their products, but it can require a substantial time commitment to operate a stand on the farm or travel to farmers markets. Additionally, many of Hartford's farms are located off the beaten path making it more difficult to attract customers.
One idea suggested thus far would be to establish a store in Hartford, preferably in a convenient, high-traffic, highly visible location, where farmers could sell their products. Operation of the store could be shared amongst the participating farmers or could be funded through the participating farmers based on a percentage of sales. The store would also serve a need by providing fresh, healthy, local food in a community without a grocery store. The store could also support agri-tourism efforts by creating another "destination" for visitors. It might be possible to expand and evolve the current farmers market towards this sales model over time.
Other direct marketing opportunities include farm stands, farmers market, CSA (community supported agriculture), pick-your-own, and direct sales to restaurants, stores or institutions.
Some resources that could support direct marketing for Hartford's farmers include: the effort to start a farmers market, the town website, promotion of agriculture at the county level, and other direct marketers and supporting facilities in the region (ex. Battenkill Valley Creamery, Argyle Cheese Farmer, the Battkill Kitchen).
Looking for more information and ideas? Check out the resources listed under the "Direct Marketing" heading on the left-hand side of this page.
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Draft Ag Plan
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