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Gov. Gregoire proclaims Aug. 2-8 as Washington Farmers Market Week

Washington's 140 farmers markets benefit farmers and consumers

OLYMPIA — The popularity of farmers markets continues to increase with the number of markets doubling in the past decade. Consumers are visiting Washington's 140 farmers markets to enjoy the freshest, locally grown produce, meats, cheeses and specialty food products.

To recognize their growing importance to consumers, farmers and the economy, Gov. Chris Gregoire, the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and the Washington State Farmers Market Association (WSFMA) are celebrating Farmers Market Week in Washington Aug. 2-8.

"Farmers markets not only support our local growers, but play a key role in uniting our communities," Gregoire said. "It is encouraging to learn that more communities across the state are hosting farmers markets, ensuring neighbors have a positive place to socialize and enjoy the nutritional benefits of Washington growers, while supporting our local economies."

Statewide, farmers markets reported $55 million sales in 2008, up from $38 million in 2006. Most of these dollars go directly to Washington family farmers. According to the WSFMA, farmers markets are located in more than 30 counties in the Evergreen State.

"People are watching their budgets today," said Jackie Aitchison, executive director of the WSFMA. "They are getting value at farmers markets near their homes as farmers bring fresh, nutritious local foods directly to consumers."

In addition to selling products that are fresh from the farm, market managers are increasing access for non-cash buyers. Many markets operate at outdoor locations without access to power or phone lines. A new wireless technology project offering point of sale machines is making it easier for customers to pay for their purchases. Twenty additional markets this summer are accepting electronic benefits transfer cards under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly the Food Stamp Program) as well as debit and credit cards. Equipment, materials and support for the project were made possible by the state Legislature's "Local Farms, Healthy Kids" initiative.

"We'd like to see farmers markets within reach of every resident of the state," said Patrice Barrentine, WSDA direct marketing program coordinator. "Our work supports and promotes vibrant and sustainable markets. The spread of farmers markets coupled with an expanded customer base —including low income, credit and debit card users — increases revenue to markets and farmers."

To increase consumer awareness of the convenience and value of farmers markets, WSDA has provided grants to promote the 2009 Farmers Market Directory Guide and educate the community about farmers markets. These grants also helped to establish new farmers markets. The department helps small farm operators comply with state and local regulations and policies as they market their crops and food products. Support also is given to farmers who sell their commodities through community-supported agriculture shares, sales at their farms, farm stores, produce stands and you-pick operations.

With technical expertise from the Washington State University Small Farms Program, WSDA last year published the Washington State Farmers Market manual, available on the WSDA Web site at http://agr.wa.gov/Marketing/SmallFarm.

For a directory of farmers market locations, find a market with wireless payment technology, and join the Farmers Market Week celebration, visit the WSFMA Web site at www.wafarmersmarkets.com.

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Note to editors: Click for a copy of Governor Chris Gregoire's proclamation for Washington State Farmers Market Week at http://agr.wa.gov/News/2009/FarmersMarketWeekProclamation2009.pdf