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Abstract
Farmers’ markets presumably benefit local economies through enhanced retention of local
dollars. Unlike other studies, the net impact of farmers’ markets on the West Virginia
economy is examined. Producer survey results are used in estimating annual direct sales
($1.725 million). Using an IMPLAN-based input-output model, gross impacts are 119 jobs
(69 full-time equivalent jobs) and $2.389 million in output including $1.48 million in gross
state product (GSP). When the effect of direct revenue losses are included (primarily for
grocery stores), the impact is reduced to 82 jobs (43 full-time equivalent jobs), $1.075
million in output, and $0.653 million in GSP.