Our Mission

The mission of the Schoharie County Farmers Market is to strengthen our local food system and celebrate agriculture as a cornerstone of our county’s identity and economy.

Our Vision

We are building a large-scale, destination farmers market for Schoharie County, one that supports local farmers and artisans while connecting residents and visitors to fresh, locally produced food and handcrafted goods.

Guided by community partners, local agencies, and dedicated volunteers, the Schoharie County Farmers Market serves as a welcoming place that keeps food dollars local, increases access to farm-fresh products, and fosters meaningful connections between producers and the people they feed.

Through education, collaboration, and community engagement, we are committed to growing a vibrant market that nourishes our community today and sustains local agriculture for generations to come.

Our Story

In late 2024, local farmers and community leaders began talking about the need for a new farmers market in Schoharie County, after a farmer reached out to the County Office of Agricultural Development.

In November 2024, an initial group of stakeholders met to explore the idea and share early thoughts. These conversations included partners from Cornell Cooperative Extension, SUNY Cobleskill, the County Health Department, Farm Bureau, local municipalities, and other community organizations.

To better understand what farmers and community members wanted, a county-wide survey was conducted February-April 2025. More than 450 people responded, including 102 farmers and vendors and 353 customers.

In summer 2025, survey results were shared at four public listening sessions held in Schoharie, Cobleskill, Blenheim/Gilboa, and Carlisle. These sessions helped gather more ideas and encouraged community involvement.

At the same time, the County Office of Agricultural Development pursued funding to support the market’s future, including applying for a USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program grant to support staffing, equipment, and marketing, and a larger grant to explore building a permanent market pavilion.

The Schoharie County Farmers Market Board was then formed in the fall of 2025 to begin planning and logistics, and we are set to launch the market in Spring 2026. The Board is made up of local farmers, community members, and stakeholders alike.

Together, these efforts reflect a strong, community-driven commitment to building a farmers market that supports local farmers and serves Schoharie County for years to come.