Help Shape the Future of Farmers Markets
Michigan State University Extension, with funding by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), is leading a national survey to better understand and support farmers markets. The goal of the National Farmers Market Survey (NFMS) is to create clear profiles and benchmarks for farmers markets at the state, regional, and national levels—information that will help guide policy, resources, and program support.
The survey will be conducted online and can be accessed using this webpage once launched on February 17, 2026. We will collect responses of the survey from launch through the end of March and post data results in the fall of 2026. Refer to our FAQs page for more details.
Your participation matters. The more markets that respond, the stronger and more representative the results will be, especially at the state level. While all markets are encouraged to take part, those receiving direct invitations are especially important to ensure accurate, statistically valid benchmarks.
The survey is designed with farmers market managers in mind:
- Questions are straightforward, requiring little or no preparation.
- All information requested is easily observable (no proprietary or sensitive data will be collected).
- Completing the survey helps build a national picture of farmers market activity during the 2025 market season.
By contributing your voice, you’ll help ensure that the unique realities of farmers markets in your state and region are accurately represented. Together, we can highlight the value of farmers markets and strengthen the support they receive nationwide.