National Farmers' Market Week is Aug. 2-8

A farmers' market in the U.S.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has declared Aug. 2 through 8 as "National Farmers' Market Week." 

This year marks the 16th annual National Farmers Market Week in honor of the important role farmers' markets play in local economies. Throughout the week,the U.S. Department of Agriculture will celebrate thousands of our nation's farmers' markets, the farmers and ranchers who make them possible and the communities that host them.

Throughout the week, USDA officials will celebrate at farmers market locations across the country. On Saturday, Aug. 1, Anne Alonzo, administrator of USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service – which conducts research, provides technical assistance, and awards grants to support farmers markets – will kick off the week at the Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico. The Santa Fe Farmers Market is the oldest in New Mexico and is ranked as one of the top 10 farmers' markets nationwide.

To find a summer farmers' market near you, go to http://www.nyfarmersmarket.com/summer-markets/

Farmers' markets provide consumers with fresh, affordable, convenient and healthy products from local producers. With support from USDA, more farmers' markets offer customers the opportunity to make purchases with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; the Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program; and the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Programs.

Supporting farmers markets is a part of the USDA's Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food Initiative, which coordinates the Department's policy, resources, and outreach efforts related to local and regional food systems.