What are Certified Farmers Markets?
Certified Farmers’ Markets are places where farmers sell their crops directly to the public. Consumers can find a wide array of fresh and locally grown, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Some markets have other vendors outside of the certified section to complement the farmers’ produce, selling bread, meats and fish, dairy products, prepared food, and local crafts. Certified farmers’ markets are approved market sites by the County Agricultural Commissioner and the Health Department. They are part of a statewide program meant to increase the sustainability of small farmers by connecting the consumer and the farmer. All farmers selling at a Certified Farmers’ market must have a Certified Producers Certificate from their local Agricultural Commissioner verifying that they grow the items that they sell. Farmers, nonprofit organizations or the local government usually operate these markets, which have developed into vital resources for communities that might otherwise lack a viable source of
