The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM) stands unified with the Black community, Black Lives Matter, and all people of color. We recognize that there is an enduring legacy of racism, white supremacy, and white privilege in this country and in Maine. White communities, and white-led organizations like ours, must actively engage in expanding the […]
The spring farmers’ market season is underway in Maine. Maine’s farmers’ markets are opening for the season and proactively responding to the Covid-19 public health emergency. The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM) reports that farmers’ markets are changing their physical layouts, locations, market rules, sanitation measures, and social norms to keep the public and […]
Farmers’ markets are in need of extra support this summer to keep their markets strong during the covid-19 pandemic. Across Maine, farmers’ markets provide food security to their communities. Nearly all farmers’ markets in Maine are organized and managed by farmer-vendors. Therefore, volunteers, at market and behind the scenes, provide a substantial contribution to supporting […]
Farmers’ Markets have dramatically changed their layout and rules to fall in line with the Governor’s emergency declarations and the Maine Department of Agriculture’s guidance for farmers’ markets. This webinar is an orientation for Maine farmers’ market vendors to learn what best practices they must be following. Topics covered include: Pre-ordering, booth setup, payment processing, […]
In response to COVID-19, the Portland Farmers’ Market (PFM) is in need of volunteers to help ensure a safe shopping experience for all. Volunteering at the market is a critical community service that will allow scores of farmers and thousands of shoppers to keep their local market thriving. Committing to just one shift a week […]
On March 19, 2020, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (DACF) released a guidance for farmers’ markets. Farmers’ markets are considered essential services in providing food to their communities. Markets are advised to determine on a case-by-case basis whether to remain open. Markets should stay alert for emerging guidance from the Maine CDC. Read […]
Materials needed: Cooler (any clean vessel capable of maintaining hot water for 8-12 hours) Bungee cords or straps (1-3) Soap Paper Towels Hand-sanitizer (if available) Trash bin (a bucket works) Water bin (a bucket works) Fill the cooler with hot water. Use straps or bungee cords to secure it to your truck, or bring a […]
Maine has its first confirmed case of COVID-19. Even before this incident, businesses around the state have been taking extra precautions to limit the risk of spreading this highly communicable virus. Maine has the oldest population in the nation, therefore, the risk of serious harm to Maine citizens is high. Farmers’ markets should be taking […]
UPDATE – Due to the covid-19 crisis, the bag ban does not go into effect until January 15, 2021. The details below outline the requirements for FM’s when the ban goes into effect. For full details of the bag ban – follow this link to the Department of Environmental Protection’s Bag Ban Guidance –The 5 […]
The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM) invites farmers’ market organizers and direct-marketing farmers to sign up to accept SNAP/EBT on January 16th during the Maine Agricultural Trades Show. There are more than 160,000 people in Maine who purchase food with SNAP. Farmers and farmers’ markets can grow their customer base, and provide a critical […]