Bonus English
Winter Farmers Markets Expand
Fuente: USDA
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan announced that the number of winter farmers markets is increasing. According to the updated National Farmers Market Directory, since 2010, the number of winter markets has increased 38 percent, from 886 to 1,225. These winter markets also account for nearly 17 percent of the nation's 7,222 operating farmers markets
"Consumers are looking for more ways to buy locally grown food throughout the year," said Merrigan. "Through winter markets, American farmers are able to meet this need and bring in additional income to support their families and businesses."
The expanded adoption of hoop house technology, which has enabled many smaller growers to extend their production seasons at low cost, has been a contributing factor to the growth of winter farmers markets. Hoop houses have allowed growers to produce locally-grown products for longer time periods and in colder climates. USDA provides support to farmers markets through numerous programs, including AMS Specialty Crop Block Grants Program and Farmers Market Promotion Program. The agency also sponsors its own indoor farmers market during
State
1. New York 2. California
3. Pennsylvania 4. North Carolina 5. Ohio
6. Maryland 7. Florida
8. Massachusetts 9. Virginia
10. Michigan
Now More than 1,200 Locations for Fresh Local Foods
Top 10 states with Farmers markets # of Winter
Markets 2011 180 153 78 73 50 48 46 3
40 33
# of Winter
Markets 2010 152 137 35 53 34 30 31
30 21 19
*Winter farmers markets are markets operating at least once between November and March.
the winter months at USDA's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The market features local products such as fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, honey, herbs, handmade soaps, baked goods and more.
50 |
| Enero/Febrero 2012
