Oregon Farmers’ Market Week!
July 28, 2008
Govenor Ted Kulongoski has declared August 2nd through 9th to be Oregon Farmers’ Market Week.
There are currently nearly 100 farmers’ markets operating in Oregon. 87 of the markets are members of the Oregon Farmers’ Markets Association (OFMA) which supports and promotes farmers markets. The number of markets in Oregon has more than doubled in the past 10 years.
Farmers markets provide more than 1000 Oregon small family-owned farms with a substantive income, and provide fresh produce to more than 90,000 customers each week during the market season.
In addition, markets provide a venue for customers to learn about healthy, fresh foods, and support low income customers through the WIC and Senior Farm Direct Coupons. Many markets are now also participating in the Oregon Trail food stamp program.
Farmers markets are a direct link between Oregon farmers and urban citizens, and build community spirit in both rural and urban settings.
Make sure to visit a market near you next week! (and this week, and every week!)
August 21, 2008 at 12:00 am
There are also a couple of other new markets being held around the state:
Prairie City has a weekly Saturday morning market, run by Sarah Mogg.
Harney County also has a new (its first) Saturday market, held in Burns, in business for approximately 8 weeks as of Aug. 15th.
These 2 markets represent some great new action on the east side of the state!