Success Story: Black Hills Farmers Market Expands Healthy Food Options

Winter in South Dakota is not usually a time to think about thriving farmers’ markets, but the Black Hills Farmers Market is re-writing the rules with expanded amenities and options, including a new winter market.

Launched on November 2, the Black Hills Farmers Market’s Winter Market takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Western Dakota Tech. With 10-12 vendors each week, featuring local produce, meats, baked goods, canned goods, gift items, dairy products, honey and hot foods, the winter market is helping individuals throughout the Black Hills embrace healthier, local food options all year long.

The market also accepts EBT at all Rapid City markets and participates in the Double Up Food Bucks program from May through October. Double Up Food Bucks enables individuals who use EBT for grocery purchases at Farmers Markets to bring home more healthy fruits and vegetables, while supporting local farmers. The program provides a one-to-one match in free Double Up Food Bucks for customers shopping with their SNAP benefits (maximum $20 per day). Double Up Food Bucks can only be redeemed for fruits and vegetables grown within 400 miles of where the market is located.

The Black Hills Farmers Market has focused on expanding many additional amenities at its summer markets this past year, as well. Many markets feature live music and have upgraded amenities to eliminate generators and enable active transportation to markets with bike racks and facilities. The market has also added many events to its calendar throughout the summer, including the annual zucchini race, kids month in July, chef events and more.

For a complete listing of Black Hills Farmers Markets locations, events and more, visit www.blackhillsfarmersmarket.org.