Farmer Market Mania!

Does it seem like there were more farmer's markets than ever this year? Well, the number of farmers markets is booming in the United States, and Wisconsin is No. 8 among states with the most markets, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Nationwide, farmers markets increased 16%, with the biggest increase among Midwestern states, the USDA found.

The top 10 states with the most farmers markets are: California, with 580; New York (461); Illinois (286); Michigan (271); Iowa (229); Massachusetts (227); Ohio (213); Wisconsin (204); Pennsylvania (203); and North Carolina (182).

Most of those states are among the 15 most populous in the country. Wisconsin ranks 20th in population in the U.S., and Iowa 30th.

Farm Fresh to your Table

Trying to eat more locally grown foods but don’t know where to begin? Have no fear; the Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas is here! Whether you want to stock your pantry or eat out, the Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas makes it easy to buy and eat locally grown food. The atlas (which is published specifically for various regions in the state) lists farms, farmer’s markets and food related businesses that sell a variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, eggs and other products.

This atlas also can provide educators with a great resource for contacting local farmers for field trips or class projects.

http://www.farmfreshatlas.org/