August 04, 2019 08:31 PM
(KSTP) — For the first time ever, Minnesota is hosting a statewide celebration of its many farmers markets.
Governor Tim Walz made a special appearance at the Minneapolis Farmers Market Sunday morning to proclaim Aug. 4-10, as Minnesota Farmers Market Week. It’s also National Farmers Market Week.
There are more than 185 farmers markets across the state.
“What’s being shown here is the power of community and the power of farmers markets,” Walz said. “At the heart of strong children, strong families, we also know farmers markets provide that opportunity to make sure nutritious foods get to everyone.”
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture said agriculture is the foundation of the state’s economy. Minnesota ranks fifth in the nation in agriculture production, with more than $100 billion in total economic impact.
Members of the department’s Minnesota Grown program say farmers markets are an important part of Minnesota’s culture, giving people greater access to healthy food and a direct line of communication with those who grow it.
“That’s really important as more and more of us no longer live on the farm to get to know our farmers, how they grow their food and raise the animals,” said Karen Lanthier of Minnesota Grown.
There are special events happening at farmers markets across the state in honor of Minnesota Farmers Market Week. For more information, click here: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/kick-national-farmers-market-week-gov-tim-walz
See the original article: https://www.KAALtv.com/news/gov-walz-announces-minnesota-farmers-market-week/5447236/