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SECRETARY MARKS FARMERS MARKET WEEK IN NJ
 

For Immediate Release: August 3, 2004

Contact:

Lynne Richmond
(609)292-8896
lynne.richmond@ag.state.nj.us

 

 

 

(TRENTON) - The longest-running community farmers market in New Jersey was the backdrop today for state Agriculture Secretary Charles M. Kuperus as he marked Farmers Market Week in the state.

Secretary Kuperus presented the Trenton Farmers Market on Spruce Street with a proclamation from Governor James E. McGreevey declaring August 1-7 as Farmers Market week. The celebration coincides with National Farmers Market Week

“Farmers Market Week showcases the great service these markets provide by bringing delicious and nutritious locally grown Jersey Fresh produce to residents who might not otherwise have access to the variety of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in our state,” said McGreevey. “The vitality of small and medium-sized farms and farm markets across New Jersey is good for local economies, good for consumers, and good for New Jersey residents.”

There are 69 community farmers markets operating in New Jersey. The number of markets in the state has been on the rise over the past few years. Eighteen new markets opened in the state in the past two years, with eight opening this summer alone.

“With all the scientific research touting the health benefits of eating fresh produce, consumers are more interested than ever in having access to the freshest produce possible,” said Kuperus. “This commemoration helps to stress the importance of increasing marketing opportunities for farmers, who keep New Jersey green and growing,”

In addition to celebrating Farmers Market Week, the Trenton Farmers Market celebrated Seniors Day, in conjunction with its participation in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) & Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which makes available locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs to nutritionally at-risk pregnant, breast-feeding, or post-partum women; children two to five years old; and eligible seniors age 60 and older. Eligible participants receive four $5 vouchers valid through Nov. 30 to purchase locally grown produce from certified farmer vendors.

In 2003, 1,500 Mercer County senior citizens participated in the Farmers Market Nutrition program and redeemed $23,470 worth of vouchers. There are 180 certified farmer vendors operating in community farmers markets throughout the state, who will benefit from more than $2 million available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Trenton Farmers Market is a year-round market operating since 1948 that offers a variety of fresh produce and other agricultural products and has been successful in bringing high quality produce to a mainly urban area.