HARRISBURG, Pa., May 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Consumers will find it easier to enjoy the fresh taste of locally produced foods by reading the 2010 Consumer's Guide to Pennsylvania Farm Markets, Agriculture Secretary Russell C. Redding said today.

"Pennsylvania's more than 1,200 farm markets and roadside stands offer a direct connection to the state's diverse agriculture industry," said Redding. "The farm market guide is a great tool consumers can use to find and purchase affordable local food at the peak of flavor and nutritional content, support their local economy and keep local farmers in business.

"I encourage consumers to use the guide to find a nearby farm market and start building a relationship with Pennsylvania's many farm families."

The 2010 Consumer's Guide to Pennsylvania Farm Markets features general information about each of the state's farm markets with information, organized by county, that includes location, days, hours of operation and products sold.

The guide also recognizes farm markets participating in the state's Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which provides vouchers to older adults and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program participants to purchase local produce. For more information about the program, call 717-787-2940 or visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us and search "FMNP."

Redding said many Pennsylvania farm markets are travel destinations, giving visitors the opportunity to visit the farm or orchard to pick fresh fruits and vegetables. The guide lists these offerings as part of Keystone Country, Governor Edward G. Rendell's agritourism initiative that promotes educational and affordable agricultural destinations, including fairs, wineries and farm stay bed and breakfasts. For a Keystone Country interactive map that is searchable by city or region, and lists nearby restaurants, lodging and activities, visit www.visitpa.com/KeystoneCountry.

For more information about Pennsylvania farm markets or agritourism, or for the 2010 Consumer's Guide to Pennsylvania Farm Markets, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us and click on "e-Services" and then "Farmers Markets," or call the Bureau of Market Development at 717-787-6041.

Media contact: Nicole L. C. Bucher, 717-787-5085

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

Back to top

RELATED LINKS
http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us