Bringing fresh back to Linden

Farmer’s markets are becoming an important part of our nation’s communities. They can foster many important connections, such as farmer to consumer, rural to urban areas, but most importantly, they connect fresh ingredients to our diets. Indeed, they provide local residents access to fresh locally grown vegetables and fruits, local meats, baked goods, and so much more. These markets are also a wonderful place for neighbors to meet neighbors.

They also help money to stay within the local economy because items sold are also produced and processed locally. This leads to job creation, economic development, and the opportunity for small businesses and farmers to sell their products locally. Another wonderful feature of many farmer’s markets is the growing acceptance of SNAP and WIC, providing access to fresh items for many low-income families.

Looking past these benefits, farmer’s markets are also considered by many as a social event. Many markets across the country include live music and many educational demonstrations, such as gardening and cooking. They also don’t just affect consumers. There is also the added benefit to those small businesses that surround the markets with added foot traffic.

That is why the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and LEDC are hosting two meetings this month to generate interest in rejuvenating the Linden Farmers Market, along with cottage food regulations, and food truck and cart regulations. The meetings will be held on March 10 at 10 A.M. and March 17 at 5:30 P.M. at 227 East Rush St.