COLUMBIA – Farmers markets are community hubs, small business incubators, and a great source for fresh food grown by local farmers. During National Farmers Market Week, enjoy the bounty of South Carolina farms by visiting a market near you.
National Farmers Market Week is this week. It’s a perfect time to acknowledge the importance of South Carolina farmers.
“When farmers sell at farmers markets, they can sell directly to the consumer, earning more money from what they grow. In other words, farmers markets are an important part of our agricultural economy,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers. “With so many delicious foods in season right now in our state, this is a great week to seek out a farmers market and talk face-to-face with a farmer.”
Many markets also provide affordable fresh food through programs like the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and SC Healthy Bucks.
To find a market, search the new interactive map on the South Carolina Department of Agriculture’s website. The list includes 135 community-based farmers markets, nearly 150 Certified Roadside Markets, and three State Farmers Markets in West Columbia, Greenville, and Florence. The South Carolina Association of Farmers Markets also maintains an online directory of farmers markets.
To learn what’s in season in South Carolina, visit certifiedsc.com.