Iowa Farmers' Markets Create Positive Economic Impact
Newswise.com
Farmers'
markets not only are a great place to get fresh produce, flowers and
baked goods, they also may generate an estimated $20.8 million in sales
and more than 325 jobs for the Iowa economy.
…”There's
more hidden economic value in Iowa's farmers' markets than meets the
eye,” said Rich Pirog, who directs the Leopold Center's Marketing and
Food Systems Initiative and the regional foods group. “Farmers' markets
and other efforts that support locally grown and processed foods have a
positive impact on the regional economy.”
Iowa
Secretary of Agriculture Patty Judge, whose office promotes and
provides educational venues for Iowa's Farmer's Markets, states that,
“Farmers' markets continue to be the number one marketing channel for
Iowa's vegetable and fruit growers. Supporting Iowa's farmer's markets
is a 'win' for all of us matching Iowa farmers with Iowa consumers.”
In 2004,
Iowa had around 160 farmers' markets, the highest per capita in the
nation. At least 55,000 people went to a farmers market every week,
with total seasonal attendance set at 135,000. An additional 12 markets
are expected to open in 2005.
(Click here to read the complete article.)
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