Why We Love Farmers Markets
| Many family farmers are struggling to stay financially afloat and face intense pressure from development. And the farms closest to America’s cities—often the providers of the delicious local food found at farmers markets—are directly in the path of destruction. American Farmland Trust’s annual Farmers Market Celebration raises awareness about the vital link between family farmers and our local food. | ||
FARMERS WIN |
YOUR COMMUNITY WINS |
YOU WIN |
| Family farmers who sell at farmers markets have nearly a 10 percent greater chance of staying in business than those selling goods through traditional channels. | Businesses near farmers markets report higher sales on market days – supporting the local economy and generating extra tax revenue in the community. | Farmers market shoppers save on average nearly 25 percent on food annually – when compared to shopping at grocery stores. |
But your farmers market might be at risk. |
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Poorly planned development is leading to the rapid loss of farmland. According to our new Farms Under Threat research, we lose 175 acres of farmland every hour to development. Among the almost 31 million acres lost between 1992-2012, nearly 11 million acres was some of the best land for intensive food and crop production. |
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And your favorite foods may be at the greatest risk. |
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| The majority of the food we eat comes from farms near urban areas. | ||
 of dairy products |
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 of fruits, tree nuts & berries |
| Act now. Make sure your farmers market knows about American Farmland Trust’s annual Farmers Market Celebration. | ||
of vegetables and melons