Project Summary

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Owen County Farmers' Market will provide local producers with alternative marketing opportunities for the direct sale of fresh farm products to consumers. The market will enhance the quality of life in the area by providing a community activity which fosters social gathering and interaction.

About me

I, Gwen Dieter, offer 18 years experience as the District Coordinator of the Owen Soil & Water Conservation District. I have procured and administered many grants awarded to the SWCD to achieve our mission to improve the quality of our natural resources and environment through education and implementation of conservation programs. Owen SWCD is led by a Board of Supervisors (Jeff Lent, Don Minnick, Connie Schneider, Ken Sebastian and Steve Worland); volunteers who actively support conservation. The SWCD heartily believes that the establishment of a Farmers' Market will accomplish our environmental goals. Local markets reduce food miles, thus vehicle pollution, noise, and fossil fuel use as well as encouraging farm diversification and sustainable bio-diversity. Several community partners have come forward to support this project. These include: Rachel Beyers (Area 10 Agency on Aging); Mark Rogers (Owen Community Foundation); Patty Steward (Cty. Council); Roy Hardesty (Farm Bureau); Mark Evans (Extension); Aaron Zeis (IN Certified Organic); and Dave Haskins (grower). The SWCD is a Community Partner for Spencer-Owen Schools' Learn & Serve Program. Students may select the OCFM as a service-learning project. Students offered many creative ideas for the Market at a recent seminar. Public support and enthusiasm for the Farmers' Market is extraordinary. Anytime neighbors rally to achieve a shared vision, it is a rare opportunity for community connection that is too precious to waste.