Community Farmers Markets
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Agricultural Chemistry | |
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Agricultural Economic Development Services | |
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Commodity Inspections and Grading | |
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Community Farmers Markets | |
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Dairy | |
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Equine | |
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Export Development | |
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Fish and Seafood Development | |
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Jersey Fresh | |
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Jersey Fresh Quality Grading Program | |
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Jersey Grown | |
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Junior Breeders Program | |
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Licensing and Bonding | |
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Organic Certification Program | |
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Recycling | |
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Third Party Audit | |
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WIC and Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program | |
Community Farmers’ Markets are more popular today than ever because exceeding numbers of consumers are becoming interested in buying their fresh produce directly from local farmers. People enjoy the wholesome experiences of talking to farmers about produce, seeing their neighbors or friends out in the open air while enjoying the sights and smells of market day.
The last growing season produced more than seventy Community Farmers’ Markets in The Garden State. Seasonal markets sprout up in nearly every county as far north as Sussex to down at the southern shore in Cape May County.
Leaders and business people in the community have recognized that smart consumers want to improve their diets through purchasing fresh produce. However, these markets go beyond, by providing economic viability and enhancing the quality of life in each community that creates this farm fresh experience.
FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM
Many farmers who attend these Community Farmers’ Markets are Certified Farmer Vendors in the WIC & Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP). These programs provide an opportunity for the state’s farmers to direct market their locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs to nutritionally at risk pregnant, breast-feeding, post-partum women, children 2-5 years old as well as eligible seniors 60 years of age and older. Participants in the FMNP receive four $5 vouchers valid June 1st throughNovember 30th to purchase locally grown produce.
YOUTH FARMSTAND PROGRAM
Finally, Rutgers Cooperative Research and Extension along with organizations and local municipalities provide educational and employment opportunities for high school students through the Youth Farm Stand Program. These selected youth sell New Jersey produce throughout the state and acquire hands-on agricultural work experiences aimed at developing citizenship skills.
MORE INFORMATION
New Jersey Department of Agriculture
Ron Good, 609-984-2278, e-mail: ron.good@ag.state.nj.us
Damon Williams, 609-984-2279, e-mail: damon.williams@ag.state.nj.us
Locate a community farmers market
For information or enrollment in the WIC program, contact your local WIC office.
Locate your county's Office on Aging
Rutgers Cooperative Research and Extension Youth Farmstand Program
Lydia Blalock
(732) 932-9705
blalock@rcre.rutgers.edu
