Missoula Clark Fork River Market opens with focus on food access

MISSOULA, Mont. — The Clark Fork River Market was scheduled to begin its outdoor season in downtown Missoula as many families continued to face higher food costs.

The market would bring back farmers, food vendors and community programs to the riverside lot near Caras Park. Organizers said accessibility was a major goal this season.

Kaylee Nassiri, executive director of the Clark Fork River Market, said the market aimed to keep vendor costs low so both new entrepreneurs and longtime farmers could take part.

“The average vendor pays $26 a week to vendor for two spaces, which is about 12 feet. And we want anyone to have that opportunity regardless of their background. So if they're a new entrepreneur and they're just trying to try something out. Or if they're a longstanding farmer. And the idea is that they can make a living and livelihood out of that,” Nassiri said.

U.S. Department of Agriculture projection that food prices would rise again in 2026, with grocery prices expected to increase more than 2% this year.

Nassiri said the market worked with partners such as the Food Bank and Farm Connect to help connect people with local food. She also said some community organizations would have space at no cost so shoppers could learn about SNAP and Double SNAP.

“A lot of people don't know that if you are part of the SNAP program, there's a double snap match up to $20 every single market day. And so you can use those that match for fresh fruits and vegetables, and that goes a long way. And so that match can be used to get you more local food. And then it can also, you know, incentivize the local community and the economy by spending money with farmers,” Nassiri said.

The market was set to run on Saturdays from May through October near Caras Park. Nassiri said shoppers could expect nearly 300 vendors during the season.