ATHOL — The move of the Athol Farmer’s Market to the Millers River Environmental Center on Main Street last year proved to be a success, according to Mary Holtorf of the Athol Agricultural Commission. “All of our sales greatly improved when we moved downtown” from the previous uptown common location.
The commission met Monday night to continue working on ways to build up the Farmer’s Market by increasing membership, expanding promotion, and to go over the budget. Currently there is $1,600 in the account, $750 of which is a stipend to be used by the end of the calendar year.
The meeting began with Holtorf voted in as Chairperson and Cathleen O’Keefe elected Clerk/Treasurer.
Holtorf went over the 2019 Farmer’s Market schedule which will start May 25 and run through September on most Saturdays from 9-noon. She noted that there are a number of local events taking place during that time that might affect scheduling or sales, so promotion is key.
The Commission has already heard from a few vendors interested in participating in the Farmer’s Market. Holtorf said that in addition to four orange cones and sandwich boards they could use more signage, and will look into pricing of lawn signs set up in a row along Main Street with wording such as “Farmer’s Market Ahead.” A sign that tells people to park behind the MREC building was requested. Advertising in local papers will be considered to help “kick off the season.”
Pam Browning proposed distributing flyers and placing posters and banners in various places to generate a bigger response.
Handouts were distributed in the River Rat Parade last year along with a float. Members talked of doing the same this year.
More research will be done about obtaining senior coupons. Holtorf said that they don’t have the volume of vendors to accept SNAP, but will try to partner with the Health Incentives Program (HIP) which allows monthly allotments of local produce.
Members Christy Bassett and Browning talked about the vendor application that is currently on the Agricultural Commission’s website and suggested that it be updated and simplified.
It will also be determined whether or not to allow crafters as vendors and to stick with produce only.
The commission would like to hire someone using available funds to help with set up and take down of equipment.
The next Agriculture Commission meeting will be Monday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall. New members are encouraged to attend. More information about the commission can be found at http://www.athol-ma.gov/agricultural-committee.