Farmers markets are growing, the number of them at least. A new USDA report found that Wisconsin was eight best in the nation and had 204 operational farmers markets this year. Market Manager Larry Johnson of the Dane County Farmers Market says he’s seen a growing interest as he gets calls from market managers around the country asking about their operation.
Organizers believe the Dane County Farmers Market is the largest producer only farmers market in the country, meaning the vendor is the person who grew or made the product.
Johnson cites numerous benefits that customers receive from markets including freshness, support of local economy and less waste as the goods don’t have to travel as far. He says most of all the shoppers value the relationship with the producer and knowing from where the food comes.
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