Farmers and food processors are the heart of New Mexico's farmers' markets.
Having a large group of vendors increases a market's role in its community, providing business incubation, a social meeting place, and a variety of quality food.
Direct sales also increase farmers' net income and provide communities with fresh, high-quality food, creating strong local economies and healthier communities. In addition to retail, you can operate a CSA at market to diversify your revenue streams.
Nearly all farmers' markets accept new farmer vendors at any time, but some markets have rules that restrict the number of non-farmer vendors such as food processors and crafters. The best way to find an appropriate market is to visit markets and meet market managers. Managers can provide farmers with information about government regulations, licensing, food assistance programs in which the market participates, market rules and fees, and the application process. Contact information for all markets can be found here (click a pin on the map, or the name of the market on the right to reveal a popup with that market's contact information).
If you're trying to decide which farmers' market(s) might be best for you, go to our Find a Market page to check the opening dates, days of operation, and hours of markets in your area. Other factors to consider are demographics, site accommodations, market size, and the market product mix.
As farmers' market participants, vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables are eligible to participate in public food assistance programs such as SNAP, and WIC and Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program if the market they attend participates in these programs. These federal/state programs serve nutritionally at-risk families and individuals and can greatly increase the earnings of New Mexico's small farmers.
