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Thursday, December 06, 2012

Delaware Farmers' Markets Post Record Sales For 2012 Season


DOVER – Delaware’s farmers’ markets sold nearly $2 million in fresh produce and other goods this season, a new record for the rapidly-growing community-run market program, First Lady Carla Markell visits the Cool Spring Farmers' Market.according to the Delaware Department of Agriculture.
“Our farmers’ markets are a great symbol of how communities can shape their local economy and support our farmers and businesses,” said Gov. Jack Markell. “My family enjoys many items from Delaware farms and farmers’ markets, and is happy to join in celebrating this banner year.”
The 29 markets sold $1.96 million worth of goods during the 2012 season, with produce making up 57 percent of the total sales, or $1.1 million. Other sales included value-added products, such as meats, cheeses, jellies, breads, salsa, eggs or honey.
The record sales figures and the record number of markets this year show that Delaware agriculture has a strong place in the hearts of residents, said Secretary of Agriculture Ed Kee.
“Farmers’ markets benefit both farmers and consumers by bringing neighbors together,” Kee said. “Those connections are stronger this year than ever before, thanks to a growing interest in local foods and healthy eating, and we want to help forge more of those bonds in the future.”

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