Bonham – As farmers’ markets grow in popularity, Texas farmers and ranchers are seeing these venues not only as a place to

sell their products, but also as a forum to meet their customers.

“Local farmers want to meet their customers, to talk with them about their products and why they grow those products the way they do,” said Jerry Magness, president of Fannin County Farm Bureau. “Farmers’ markets are a great place to start those conversations.”

In June, farmers’ market shoppers can find a variety of fresh Texas products, including peaches, peppers, tomatoes, blueberries, melons, cucumbers, mushrooms, onions and more. Some ranchers opt to sell fresh beef at farmers’ markets, as well.

“While it’s not as diverse as a grocery store, the variety at some of these farmers’ markets is pretty amazing,” Magness said. “Many customers want to meet the men and women who grow the fruit, vegetables and meat that their families enjoy. It’s a truly unique shopping experience.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has developed a searchable database of the nation’s farmers’ markets. Site visitors can search by location, market name, products available and payment type accepted.

Search the database at http://farmersmarkets.usda.gov