Governor Brad Little has proclaimed August as Idaho Farmers Market Month.  In doing so, the Governor noted the essential role that Farmers Markets play in connecting Idahoans to fresh, locally grown foods.  Dawn Larzelier with Idaho Preferred agrees, saying Farmers Markets are vital for Idaho producers.

 

"And I'm kind of glad that farmers markets are a trend that doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon. Shopping at a Farmers Market is really a great experience for consumers, for everybody really.  Like I said, you have access to some of the freshest produce around, you get to meet your farmer, and you get to build community  It's really a great experience, not just for shopping, not just for supporting your community, but also building the local economy as well.” 

 

When it comes to the best way to celebrate Idaho Farmers Market Month, Larzelier encourages everyone to get out and visit one of the state’s 55 Farmers Markets.

 

“If any Idahoans need help locating their community farmers market, we're really proud of the fact that Idaho Preferred has developed, the Farmers Market Finder.  It's an online tool that helps consumers find not only their community farmers markets, but what times of the week they're operating, or times of the day, you can search by region, you can search by any services offered.  And something new that we added is a filterable option to find out whether or not your market accepts SNAP benefits or if they participate in any nutritional incentive programs. Like the Double Up Food Bucks. So, it's a really great way for consumers to have a great experience at their local Farmers Market.” 

 

Learn more about Farmers Markets across the state by visiting Idaho Preferred's Website.  You can listen to our entire conversation with Larzelier here:

 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com 

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