MONTGOMERY – Agriculture & Industries Commissioner Ron Sparks urges Alabamians to visit their local farmers market this summer.
“There have been rumors circulating that farmers markets are being closed down around the state,” said Sparks. “Rumors like that hurt our farmers and cost them business during their peak season. Not only have markets not been shut down, we have had an increase in the last seven years. We need to all be supportive of our farmers who work so hard to continually provide fresh, local fruits and vegetables for our families.”
Sparks also announced that the annual Farmers Market Day will be held Saturday, July 10, 2010 from 8:00am to1:00pm at the Montgomery State Farmers Market at 1655 Federal Drive next to Garrett Coliseum.
This special day will give local farmers an opportunity to display their best homegrown produce and flowers and provide tons of fun for the entire family. Farmers Market Day will offer something exciting for everyone to enjoy so get there early to find the best selection of your favorite fruits and vegetables. Among the many exciting events are a Watermelon Eatin’ Contest and a Corn Shuckin’ Contest.
Admission and most activities are free. Farmers Market Day is a joint effort of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the Resource Conservation & Development Council and the Department of Agriculture and Industries. For more information on Farmers Market Day 2010 activities, please call 1-800-243-4769 or 334-242-5350.