By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (April 12, 2025)
Placerville, Calif. — April 13, 2025
El Dorado County is experiencing a notable expansion in its farmers’ markets, reflecting a growing commitment to local agriculture, sustainable practices, and community well-being. These markets have become essential venues for residents to access fresh, locally sourced produce while supporting regional farmers.
Expansion of Certified Farmers’ Markets
The El Dorado County Certified Farmers’ Market Association (EDCCFMA), a nonprofit organization, now operates four certified markets across the county:
-
Placerville: Saturdays
-
El Dorado Hills: Sundays at the Community Center, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., year-round
-
South Lake Tahoe: Tuesdays
-
Cameron Park: Wednesdays
These markets offer a variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, honey, eggs, mushrooms, microgreens, live plants, and wine. Many also feature non-certified sections with bakery items, meats, seafood, artisan crafts, food trucks, and live music, creating vibrant community events .
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Farmers’ markets in El Dorado County provide economic advantages by allowing farmers to sell directly to consumers, reducing costs associated with shipping, packaging, and wholesale distribution. This direct-to-consumer model enables farmers to offer competitive prices while retaining a larger share of profits .
Environmentally, these markets promote sustainable agriculture by encouraging local consumption, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.
Community Engagement and Education
Beyond commerce, farmers’ markets serve as educational platforms. The UC Master Gardeners of El Dorado County maintain booths at various markets, offering guidance on home gardening and sustainable practices . Additionally, the “Ag in the Classroom” program, supported by the El Dorado Water Agency, provides hands-on agricultural education to over 2,500 students annually, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in the local economy and environment .
Accessibility and Inclusivity
To ensure inclusivity, many markets accept benefits such as EBT, WIC, and Senior Nutrition Coupons. Some participate in the Market Match program, which doubles CalFresh benefits when spent on fresh fruits and vegetables, making healthy food more accessible to low-income residents .
Looking Ahead
The continued growth of farmers’ markets in El Dorado County signifies a robust movement toward supporting local agriculture, fostering community connections, and promoting sustainable living. As these markets evolve, they are poised to play an increasingly vital role in the county’s economic and social landscape.
For more information on market locations and schedules, visit the El Dorado County Certified Farmers’ Market Association website.
