Farmers Market (©photo by Kevin Rosseel, courtesy of morgueFile.com)

Despite a tough economy that has American families making ever more purchasing decisions based on price, more than 1,000 new farmers markets were added across the country, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2011 National Farmers Market Directory.

Last year, the USDA reported that 6,132 farmers markets were operating across the country. The new report indicates a total of 7,175 now operate in the U.S., an increase of 17.0%, meaning more farmers are marketing their products directly to consumers than ever before.

“The remarkable growth in farmers markets is an excellent indicator of the staying power of local and regional foods,” said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan.

She added, “These outlets provide economic benefits for producers to grow their businesses and also to communities by providing increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables and other foods. In short, they are a critical ingredient in our nation’s food system.”

Fresh Bell Peppers (©photo by Tana Butler, courtesy of morgueFile.com)

The Directory reveals that several states have experienced rapid growth in farmers markets since 2010, reflecting a growing interest outside of the Far West and Northeast states, where the popularity of farmers markets is more well-established. Alaska and Texas ranked at the top for most growth in farmers markets at 46% and 38%, respectively.

The Top 10 list for growth includes:

1. Alaska (35 markets, up 46%)
2. Texas (166 markets, up 38%)
3. Colorado (130 markets, up 38%)
4. New Mexico (80 markets, up 38%)
5. Indiana (171markets, up 37%)
6. Oklahoma (61 markets, up 32%)
7. South Dakota (29 markets, up 32%)
8. Pennsylvania (266 markets, up 31%)
9. Ohio (278 markets, up 31%)
10. Michigan (349 markets, up 30%)

The Top 10 states for number of recorded farmers markets in 2011 were spread across the country:

1. California (729 markets)
2. New York (520)
3. Michigan (349)
4. Illinois (305)
5. Ohio (278)
6. Pennsylvania (266)
7. Massachusetts (255)
8. Iowa (237)
9. Wisconsin (231)
10. North Carolina (217)

Customers with Various Incomes

Nearly 12% of the famers markets reported at are able to accept SNAP (formerly known as food stamp) benefits, a % increase since 2010. SNAP redemptions in 2010 totaled $7.5 million at all certified farmers market and direct-to-consumer food retail establishments. Program participants made 453,711 purchases at farmers markets and direct farm marketing outlets nationwide, with an average purchase amount of $16.69.

To access the Directory, go to: USDA Farmers Market Directory

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