Why Shopping at Your Local Farmers’ Market is a Vote for American Farmers and Farmland

No Farms. No Food. A catchy tagline, but also an undeniable truth. American farmland not only grows our food, it is the foundation of rural communities, providing jobs, recreational opportunities and a connection to the land. Purchasing your food directly from farmers, ranchers and other food producers at farmers’ markets has a huge impact on the economic viability of farming. Studies have shown that for every dollar spent at a farmers’ market, the producer receives around 90 cents, as opposed to 15-17 cents on the dollar when they sell to a wholesaler. In this episode of Eat. Drink. Think., our host Gibson Thomas talks to two farmers’ market managers from very different parts of the U.S. about how their markets and other programs help farmers connect directly with consumers, as well as provide other support. They are joined by American Farmland Trust’s New York Policy Manager to talk about the organization’s work with farmers’ markets in her area, as well as AFT’s programs that support farmers’ markets throughout the country. With the 2023 Farm Bill top of mind right now for everyone in the agricultural sector, all three guests weigh in on what matters most to them in this important piece of legislation—and how listeners can help.  This summer, American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition are giving away $15,000 in prizes (and more!) to the nation’s favorite farmers markets. Voting starts June 19, 2023 and runs through September 18, 2023! Make sure your favorite market is listed, and spread the word in your community!Links:Farmland.orgMarkets.Farmland.orgAKFoodPolicyCouncil.orgAgriculturalInstitute.org Farm to Institution NY StateAFT’s Farm Bill Policy Platform2023 Farm Bill