Maryland has not opened up wholesale\retail market like those found further south due to the resistance of private brokers. Instead, the farmers market focus has been on tailgate markets to serve the expanding suburbs and new communities. Beginning in 1990 with one trial market instigated by the Governor, the program has doubled the number of successful farmers markets by adding over 30 new markets. Total return to farmers is $10-15 million.

The program is funded through general revenue funds of $100,000 per year. These funds provide for small (up to $3,000) start-up grants and group liability insurance for 31 markets. The grant program is limited to three years support. Including salaries and staff expenses, total cost of the program is $200,000 per year. Each successful Maryland market does that much business within two year's of inception. A farmer's market starts when a sponsoring organization requests assistance from the Department. These sponsoring agencies have ranged from farmer groups to Chambers of Commerce to local governments to shopping centers. Department staff assist local groups in choosing sites, advertising, recruiting farmers, and making market surveys.

The Department views the program as a business incubator for small and beginning farmers. A number of farmers have begun production with all initial sales at a new market. Several existing farmers have doubled produciton--including value-added products such as goat cheese.

The program does especially well in newly developing suburbs where they are often seen as a means of developing a sense of community and in redevelopment efforts in older communities.

The WIC/Farmers Market Coupon program has helped a number of markets to take off in older residential areas.