The county of riverside office of economic development in partnership with the blythe chamber of commerce will improve the economic conditions for agricultural producers and residents within the…

The county of riverside office of economic development in partnership with the blythe chamber of commerce will improve the economic conditions for agricultural producers and residents within the blythe and palo verde valley areas by developing and operating a direct producertoconsumer farmers market. This will be designed to enhance access to locally produced agricultural goods support existing operations of producers increase sales for farmers and ranchers and facilitate greater consumption of their goods by consumers and stakeholders. The initiative will encompass the management of weekly market operations including administrative oversight and electronic marketing strategies. Data collection and sharing with relevant stakeholders will be a core component allowing for informed decisionmaking and operational improvements. The anticipated outcome is a strengthened local economy centered around the efficient distribution of agricultural products and the sustained viability of farming operations with bolstered producer capacity to retain current jobs and to create new employment opportunities within the region.