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News Release 8-20-2000 |
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COMMISSIONER DOUGLASS PROCLAIMS NATIONAL FARMERS' MARKET WEEK Charleston, W.VA. - West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass joined Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman in proclaiming July 30-August 5, 2000 "National Farmers' Market Week." The number of farmers' markets in the United States has grown dramatically in recent years. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the latest national figures show that the number of farmers' markets increased 56 percent from 1994 to 1998, when the Federal government counted 2,746 markets. Sales generated by farmers' markets have been estimated to exceed $1 billion a year, with most of the money going directly to small family farmers. West Virginia has seen an increase in the number of farmers' markets during the same period from 15 to 22, according to USDA. "The vitality of small- and medium-sized farms across West Virginia is good for local economies, good for consumers and good for our State's citizens," said Commissioner Douglass. Farmers' markets create an opportunity for urban dwellers to meet growers and gain an appreciation of farming. Many communities are finding it rewarding to invest in local markets as a component of economic development and are realizing benefits from the resulting tourism. Robert Williams, Director of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture's (WVDA) Marketing and Development Division, said "Consumers benefit from the freshness, quality and wide selection of locally grown products. Meeting and interacting with the farmer who grows the food also develops in consumers a special bond of trust in the integrity and accountability of our growers." West Virginia Direct Marketing Association President Chris Welshans agrees that farmers' markets provide a vital marketing tool for new and expanding agricultural enterprises. "Many producers find farmers' markets a tool for exploring consumer demands and providing new market opportunities. They allow the farmer to stay connected to their clients while providing exceptional customer service." In declaring "National Farmers' Market Week," Secretary Glickman noted that farmers' markets and roadside stands have always been a way for Americans to stay in touch with their heritage and roots. Today, farmers' markets are also critical to the success of American agriculture by allowing small farmers to sell their fresh produce and value-added products directly to consumers. The WVDA works with markets to encourage growth and help needy families gain access to healthy produce by facilitating acceptance of food stamps at many of the State's markets. For more information on West Virginia farmers' markets, contact the WVDA's Marketing and Development Division, 304/558-2210. |
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©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved |
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