Impact of WIC & Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Programs in Washington’s Communities

In November 2011, WSFMA conducted a survey of FMNP farmers to find out more about them and how important the FMNP program is to their businesses. It was distributed at the Tilth Producers conference and emailed to farmers selling at farmers markets around the state. There were 887 farmers authorized to accept FMNP checks in 2011. 115 farmers responded to the survey. 55% of the farmers stated they earn between 75% – 100% of their family income from farming. Over 50% depend on farmers market sales for a significant portion of their farm income. The farmers indicated that sales from FMNP influence whether they sell at some markets. Farmers identified 54 markets across the state that they may stop selling at if the FMNP program is eliminated.