Ypsilantis Farmers Markets: Moving Toward Sustainability

Last years new Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers Market was a resounding success, with almost 5300 customer visits and an average of 17 vendors per day despite frequent rain showers on market days. The market was the fruit of many organizations labor, including Ypsilanti Health Coalition, partner agencies, and Growing Hope. At the end of the season, market organizers knew they had increased access to healthy food for many local residents, but also faced the serious question of how to bring the market back in future years.

Building an organizational structure for community input was an important first step toward sustainability, and in January 2007, market organizers launched the Ypsilanti Farmers Market Community Advisory Board (CAB) and Executive Committee. People from many parts of life in Ypsilanti were recruited to be part of the CAB, including market customers and farmers; representatives from business, fraternal organizations, EMU, and local health clinics; MSU Extension; Washtenaw County Public Health and the Ypsilanti Food Co-op. The CAB is charged with providing guidance on many aspects of the market, such as vending policies, marketing, and events. The Executive Committee takes that guidance and makes decisions.

In another strategy toward sustainability, market organizers have also sought to broaden the markets customer base through advertising and new programs. For the first time this year, Senior Project Fresh will be offered in Washtenaw County. This free program provides older adults with coupons to buy fresh, Michigan-grown produce at the Ypsilanti Farmers Market. Seniors also receive nutrition education about eating healthy and preparing fresh produce. Market organizers are thrilled to bring this program to both the Depot Town and Downtown market locations.

The Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers Market kicked off its second season on Tuesday, May 15. Market hours are from 2:00 6:00 p.m. The Depot Town Farmers Market location opened on April 28, with hours from 8:00 2:00 each Saturday.

The market is generously supported the Michigan Department of Community Health's Cardiovascular Health, Nutrition, & Physical Activity Section. This funding comes to the market through the Washtenaw Steps Up program.