Abstract:
Small‐scale farmers in the Southern Willamette Valley supply the local food market via different
market channels such as food based businesses (restaurants, grocery stores), farmers’ markets, farm
stands, and Community Supported Agriculture programs (CSAs.) The purpose of this study is to
understand the opportunities and problems faced by small‐scale farm operators in accessing and serving
local markets.
This niche is important to our local economy and the health of our community. My hope is that
the information collected and insights gleaned from this project will be translated into actions and
useful in strengthening small‐scale farmers’ ability to compete and succeed in different market channels
while serving and strengthening the local community.
