She said farming non-commercially is getting more and more difficult, and less cost effective.
“The result of the permit is that farmers are able to increase their market locations without incurring additional licensing fee,” Woods said. “Allowing farmers to expand to make fresh produce more available to us is a tremendous public benefit.”
What does the permit cover and not cover?
The permit specifically reduces costs on raw commodities for farmers. It covers raw fruits, vegetables and eggs, as well as vegetable transplants and ornamentals. What doesn’t quite make the cut, though, are goods like jellies, jams and meats.
These items are all deemed “value-added” or “processed” and no longer raw, Woods said.
Why did the FMA create the permit?
The FMA created the growers permit to lower costs for crop farmers. Livestock sales in the state are exempt from sales tax when sold by the producer directly, but not when sold by a separate party. The growers permit gives this advantage to crop farmers as well by allowing them to sell their produce directly, instead of from home or from a store.
Going Beyond Growers
Seniors may apply for a $30 benefit card to spend at authorized farmers markets throughout the state. While seniors may be accustomed to the paper vouchers that have been in use since 2001, the FMA is making a switch to card vouchers in 2022. More information on who can receive this card and how to apply can be found on the Extension website or the Farmers Market Authority’s website.
Source : aces.edu