USDA Seeks Peer Reviewers for Farmers Market Program

The Agriculture Department invites individuals to share their expertise in
reviewing project proposals for the 2012 Farmers Market Promotion Program
grants.
The Farmers Market Promotion Program is a competitive grant process
designed to expand farmer-to-consumer market opportunities in the U.S.
Approximately $10 million is available for marketing operations such as
farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture, roadside stands and
agritourism.
Prospective reviewers should have a general knowledge of how locally based,
direct farm-to-consumer marketing programs operate. They must also be able
to commit approximately 50 to 60 hours during the month of July. Reviewers
will evaluate, score and comment on approximately 25 proposals and
participate in team discussions for group consensus on final project scores
and rankings. There is no travel involved, so interested individuals may
participate from anywhere in the country.
USDA is particularly interested in reviewers with diverse perspectives and
critical judgment who are:
• Farmers with direct marketing experience
• Members of agricultural cooperatives, producer networks or
associations
• Employees from non-profits, public benefit and economic
development corporations
• Regional farmers’ market authorities or managers
• Federal, state, local or tribal government employees
• Individuals with experience in implementing electronic
benefits transfer projects
For additional information or to download an application, click here.
Agricultural Marketing Service – Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP)

Debbie Hamrick
Director Specialty Crops
North Carolina Farm Bureau
PO Box 27766
Raleigh, NC 27611-7766
(919) 334-2977
Cell: (919) 302-9538
debbie.hamrick