Frequently Asked Questions for Consumers
Where does the produce and food sold at the markets come from? Everything is grown or produced by our KCFMA members — generally within a 100-mile radius of the market locations.
Do you have organically grown food? Yes, several of our vendors are Certified Organic by the USDA. Only they are allowed to use the word “Organic.” Most of our vendors use natural growing methods and little or no pesticides. You may see “naturally grown” or other wording in their signage. You can always ask the vendor, as he/she is the one who grows the product.
Why aren’t tomatoes available in June? Since we are local growers, we work with the seasons and non-hot house tomatoes are not ripe in June in our region. However, a few vendors grow tomatoes in greenhouses, which produce hot-house tomatoes earlier in the season.
Why do some vendors charge sales tax and others don’t? Every vendor is legally required to charge tax, however some vendors include sales tax in the price of their items, while others add 6% to the sales price.
Can I bring my pet to the Saturday market? We love pets too, but unfortunately dogs and other pets are not allowed at the Saturday market. We don’t allow pets in purses, carried, or in buggies. Certified service animals are excluded. We have water and a bench in the shade by the main entrance, so one of your party can wait with your pet. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PET UNATTENDED.
Do you accept EBT cards? Yes, cards are swiped at the Manager’s Booth. We issue tokens, which consumers use to pay vendors. Please let the vendor know that you are paying with tokens, so they do not charge sales tax. Change in cash is prohibited
What are Double Up Bucks and how do I apply? When you swipe your EBT Card, you qualify for $10/day in additional special tokens that are only good for fruits and vegetables. The KCFM is part of a pilot program in Idaho. The funds for extra tokens are subsidized by the market and private donations.
Can I use a credit/debit card for purchases? Yes. You can visit the Market Manager booth and swipe your debit or credit card for Market Tokens in $10 increments–they are treated like cash. Additionally, many vendors accept credit cards at their booths.
Is the market operated by Kootenai County? No. The Kootenai County Farmers’ Market Association, Inc. is incorporated by the state of Idaho as a non-profit corporation. The KCFMA has a Board of Directors, paid managers, and much of the work to maintain and operate the market is done by unpaid volunteer members. The mission of the Kootenai County Farmers’ Market Association is to foster local, family-operated agriculture, forestry, and arts and crafts.
How can I become a vendor at the KCFMA? See the Become a Vendor section.
