MARLBOROUGH, Mass. — Be sure to visit your local farmers market between Aug. 4 and 10 to celebrate National Farmers Market Week. This annual celebration was started by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to highlight the role farmers market play in the food system, which includes preserving farmland, stimulating local economies, increasing access to fresh nutrition food, improving community and promoting sustainability.
“All forms of agriculture are important in the Commonwealth – from roadside stand to farmers market, we value each and every type of farm,” said Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation President Mark Amato. “However, in a state with such a wide consumer base, we always enjoy any celebrations or events that connect consumers with their food and local, trusted farmer.”
At many farmers markets, and local farmstands, consumers can find an array of farm products, including baked goods, jams and jellies, maple products, honey, farmstead cheeses, flowers, turkey products, eggs and more!
“The local food movement in Massachusetts has become an important piece of our marketing structure,” Amato said. “Consumers make the choice to spend their dollars on local food and support us, which has allowed the buy local movement to flourish in the Commonwealth. We are hopeful to continue to see an emphasis on this in the future.”
Currently apples, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and most vegetables and protein products are in season in Massachusetts and should be available for purchase from your local farmer.
To find a farm, farm stand or farmers market near you, please visit: http://www.mass.gov/agr/massgrown/map.htm.
–Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation
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