|
“The Crossroads of the Gourmet Community” |
Sponsored by:
 |
Summer Statistics: Farmers Markets Gain in Popularity
Kitchenware stores find farmers market shoppers value local businesses. (Photo credit Merrill Resch)
Farmers markets continue to grow in popularity with statistics showing the number of farmers markets in the U.S. climbed 16 percent in 2010 from 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which celebrated National Farmer’s Market Week August 1-7.
It’s a trend noticed by many kitchenware retailers who play up their local roots (ahem) by linking with area farmers markets and the locavores who shop there. (For more see July’s IHA Gourmet Home.)
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the growth of farmers markets, “Indicates that regional food systems can provide great economic, social and health benefits to communities across the country while offering economic opportunities for many producers of all sizes.”
The Midwest saw the strongest growth of markets by percentage, the USDA reports, although California has the most, with 580 operational farmers markets.
Overall, 6,132 farmers markets operate nationwide and 886 farmers markets stay open year round. And that’s not limited to sunny climates: off-season farmers markets operate in 47 states and the District of Columbia.
Here are the top 10 states with
the most farmers markets:
1. California (580)
2. New York (461)
3. Illinois (286)
4. Michigan (271)
5. Iowa (229)
6. Massachusetts (227)
7. Ohio (213)
8. Wisconsin (204)
9. Pennsylvania (203)
10. North Carolina (182)
The top 10 states by percentage market growth from 2009-2010:
1. Missouri (77)
2. Minnesota (61)
3. Idaho (60)
4. Michigan (60)
5. Indiana (47)
6. South Dakota (46)
7. Arkansas (41)
8. Washington (37)
9. Ohio (36)
10. Oklahoma (31)
To find farmers markets in your area:
- Search the USDA’s National Farmers Market Directory at http://farmersmarkets.usda.gov for listings by state, county, zip code and participation in federal nutrition assistance programs.
- The Natural Resources Defense Council offers an interactive site that maps local markets as well as gives updates on produce in season, at www.simplesteps.org/eat-local
