Dig into Horticulture: Successful Farm Direct Marketing

Thinking about getting into farm direct marketing or expanding into a different market? Learn the basics and market types to consider.

Direct marketing provides an opportunity to sell your products, connect directly with your customer and build relationships. While it offers a range of market outlets, knowing where to start and determining the best business model for your farm operation can be daunting. Participants will learn about the various market types available, from farmers’ markets and CSAs to food service, retail and more.

These sessions will address key considerations needed for each market, the pros and cons of each type, and essential topics such as basic regulations and food safety. Two producers will share their experiences about selling direct into specific markets and things they learned along the way. Whether you are new to direct marketing or considering new market channels, this webinar will help you better understand the options available, and to make informed decisions about selling direct.

Session 1: From Farm to Customer: Where to Sell and What to Know

March 4, 2026, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. MST

Eileen Kotowich with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation will provide an overview of each market type. Participants will learn about the various market types available, gain insight into the pros and cons of each, and learn about some regulations you need to keep in mind. Register by March 3.

Session 2: Producer Perspectives

March 18, 2026, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. MST

Ryan Mason, Reclaim Organics and Shauna Bokenfohr, Bokey Blooms Farms

Join two successful local producers as they share their experiences about how selling into specific market types fits with their farm, and the things they learned on the way. Register by March 17.

For more information, contact agriculture@parklandcounty.com.

The Dig into Horticulture program is a collaborative effort between: Parkland County, Sturgeon County, Woodlands County, and Leduc County to strengthen our region’s horticultural businesses for both new and established producers. This roadmap series includes webinars, workshops and various events to help inform our producers of all things from production to marketing to business plans and everything in between.