07/31/08 Next week is Farmers Market Week

Washington Ag July 31, 2008 In Washington they number 125 and they had sales in 2007 of 55 million dollars, up from 38 million in 2006. What are they? Farmers markets. And the Washington State Department of Agriculture and Washington State Farmers Market Association join Governor Chris Gregoire in proclaiming August 3rd through the 9th Washington State Farmers Market Week, a time to recognize the benefits of farmers markets to Washington residents. Patrice Barrentine, WSDA Small Farm and Direct Marketing program coordinator, explains the appeal of farmers markets. Barrentine: "I think the appeal is the freshness of the produce. Actually getting to meet the farmers who grow your food and also the festive community atmosphere. You are not only going to get your food but you are running into your neighbors." And Barrentine cites an example of how farmers markets are committed to local communities. Barrentine: "The Olympia Farmers Market, the Chehalis Farmers Market, the Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Market Association, all put together funds to help raise money and support the farms that were so affected by December's flooding." For a directory of market locations along with a farmers market week challenge with prizes, visit www.wafarmersmarkets.com I'm Bob Hoff.