The Fayetteville Farmers Market celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023. Its commitment to local produce within the 4-mile county region brings the community together. Market Manager Kayla Lindsey and Outreach Manager Julia Den Herder oversee many of the Market’s operations and are both vendors themselves.
Michael Crane of Dripping Springs Garden and 40-year Market vendor says, “We always wanted to be Market gardeners. We knew we had to find a place that was by The University because they attract more diversity of people.”
Bryan and Konny Brandon bought Ozark Natural Breads, started in 1987, from Bryan’s parents when his father retired last year. “[We’ve] been making bread for Fayetteville’s folks for almost 40 years,” says Bryan. “We’ve got a pretty awesome crew. We’ve enjoyed growing with the Market. I’ve seen a significant increase in just this year from last year.”
Chuck and Doni Rutherford of Rutherford Farms, a 21-year Market vendor, offer a variety of produce, including the rare American chestnut, blueberries, blackberries, tomatoes, peppers, and more. Chuck was President of the Board for 18 years but says, “I’m just an ordinary farmer dude now.”
“We have been members of the market for 18 years,” says Marquita Den Herder of DH Farm. “We do produce fruits and plants, pastured pork, and chicken. I love the Farmers Market because it’s its own little community. We get to develop relationships with our customers, the vendors themselves are like our second family, and the atmosphere is a great place to be in.”
Henry Francis says, “Evergreen Beef Co. is a pastured raised, frozen-packaged beef vendor, and we pride ourselves on providing the Fayetteville community with premium, dependable, and delicious cuts of beef. As first-year vendors at the Farmers Market, we have been blown away by the enthusiasm and support of our customers!”