Southland Farmers' Market Association

About Southland Farmers' Market Association

As the burgeoning farmers' market movement grew in California, Southland helped to direct and support farmers, new markets, and promote and support existing markets. Today, Southland Farmers' Market Association is the largest trade association of certified farmers' markets in California. Founded in 1983, the Association has grown to represent 22 farmers' markets and more than 400 growers in Southern California.

There are more than 360 certified farmers' markets in California and the number continues to grow each year. In 2001, the industry accounts for $250 million in sales. This is all the more remarkable for the fact that certified farmers' markets must be operated as a community service by a non-profit organization, local public agency or California certified growers. Southland offers assistance to markets and growers with marketing, promotions, member services, legislative advocacy and self-enforcement programs.