Georgia has the largest network of Farmers' Markets in the country. Seventeen retail/wholesale markets total 450 million in sales per year with return to farmers of about $100 million per year. The Atlanta market accounts for almost 3/4 of the total sales, though smaller markets in Thomasville, Cordelle and Moultrie (each with nearly $20 million in sales) have a much higher percent return to farmers.

The Georgia network began in the 1930's in response to decline in cottton yields due largely to the boll weevil. A few markets closed in the late 1940's, but none have closed recently. The last two markets to open were in the late 50's and mid 70's. The markets cost the state of Georgia about $1 million per year to run. All are operated by the Department of Agriculture--employing 150 people.

With anticipated reductions in state spending, the markets will probably see some reduction in state support. Some markets are expected to close in the next few years. Larger farmers efficiently operate without the state markets and smaller truck farmers are becoming less and less common in Georgia. However, there is continuing support in the legislature for assisting groups of farmers to build packing sheds with coolers.

In addition to financial assistance on an ad hoc basis through individual legislative initiatives, Georgia has a network of Area Marketing Coordinators to help farmers with packaging, transportation, variety selection and other components needed to meet market standards and demand.