Capital Connection 

According to the USDA, there are approximately 2,800 farmers markets across the country.  That's a 60% increase since 1994.  In an effort to learn more about the trend, we went straight to the source...the U.S. Department of Agriculture's very own farmers market in Washington, D.C.  

Errol Bragg, who is the program manager, said "We have found farmers markets are offering opportunities for farmers to sell products directly to consumers and they're getting a bigger share of consumer dollars and they're becoming more profitable and they see it as a tremendous benefit." 

One farmer, Jean Ann Feneis agrees.  She grows herbs and flowers in Virginia that are used in making specialty soaps.  "Actually, I started this company so I could help save small farms and provide for farmers markets.  One of my passions is to show that people can make a living in a rural economy by making a value added product.  You take something from the land, add to it and sell it."

Our Secretary of Agriculture, Ann Veneman, also agrees.  "The community comes together and they talk with their neighbors and interact with people selling the products and I think it's a quality of American life that's been developing and increasing." 

Secretary Veneman adds, "Another benefit of going to farmers markets is some of the unusual products you'll find.  For example Brey's Honey Farm of Maryland produces honey sticks in over 25 flavors from blueberry to cinnamon." 

J.D. Brey manages about 50 bee hives with his wife and tells us, "It's a year round job and my wife says I spend more time with my bees than I do with her."  Maple syrup is also one of their products which they use not only for pancakes but in a special barbeque sauce, salad dressing and even candy-coated peanuts. 

But farmers markets are not only about sweet treats and farm fresh fruits and vegetables.  There are also educational nutrition programs that many farmers market organizers are bringing to consumers and they're getting a lot more information about the nutrition and health benefits of eating well.  And that's a terrific bonus for us!