August 15, 2006

Sebelius proclaims August “Kansas Farmers’ Market Month”

Governor Kathleen Sebelius today proclaimed August Kansas Farmers’ Market Month and urged all Kansans to visit their local community market for farm-fresh foods and to support local farmers.

“The popularity of our farmers’ markets continues to rise as more Kansans discover the benefits of buying fresh, locally grown food,” Sebelius said.  “These markets also are an important venue for many of our small- and medium-sized farming operations, since farmers can realize a higher return selling directly to consumers.”

Kansas currently has 70 markets in 67 communities from Garden City to Kansas City where consumers can find produce picked at the height of ripeness, as well as baked goods, herbs, flowers, cheeses and more. 

“Farmers’ markets offer consumers farm-fresh, affordable, convenient and healthy products,” Sebelius said.  “Plus, local farmers spend their money with local merchants, so that money stays where it benefits everyone and helps build a stronger local economy.”

One group benefiting from the bounty of farmers markets are low-income seniors participating in a nutrition program administered by the Kansas Department on Aging.  Since 2003, the department has been able to turn federal dollars into coupons that can be exchanged for fresh produce at farmers’ markets, roadside stands and community-supported agriculture programs.

The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment joined forces this year to bring a mid-week farmers’ market to the Statehouse grounds.  When announcing the market, the Department of Health and Environment noted only one in five Kansas adults consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day, despite research that shows it would reduce the risk of chronic diseases and many cancers.

“The steady growth of the mid-week market in front of the Statehouse is a testament to the quality of products sold there,” Sebelius said.  “It’s great to see so many downtown workers who are taking advantage of the opportunity to buy Kansas-grown foods.”

Finding the nearest farmers’ market is as easy as calling a local K-State Research and Extension Office.  A list of markets also is available on the Web at www.oznet.ksu.edu/farmersmarkets/.

# # #