by Alex Johnson

WASHINGTON, D.C.
On Tuesday American Farmland Trust announces the launch of its tenth annual Farmers Market Celebration, set to run through Sept. 21.

The Celebration is a national effort to promote the importance of family farmers and farmers’ markets, while also raising awareness about the loss of America’s farmland.

There is no better way to nourish ourselves and celebrate the people that nourish our communities than by supporting your local farmers market. That’s why for our 10th summer, AFT’s Farmers Market Celebration encourages market shoppers, family farmers, community activists, and anyone who believes in the power of local food to endorse their favorite market in four categories:

•Focus on Farmers

• Healthy Food for All

• Pillar of the Community

• Champion for the Environment

At the end of the Celebration, AFT will present awards to the top markets in each of the four categories above. AFT will also recognize a “People’s Choice” winner and the top three most recommended markets in each state.

All summer long, farmers and shoppers are encouraged to use the hashtag #OnMyFork to show off the best of what their market has to offer and to highlight the importance of our food choices in supporting family farmers.

We want to showcase the markets that make your community proud, so join the conversation and share your story with AFT on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Local food and local food producers are the foundation of local economies and communities. Farmers and consumers both benefit. Studies show that producers that participate in farmers markets have a 10 percent greater chance of staying in business, and people who shop at the local markets save 25 percent a year in food costs.

To endorse your favorite farmers market, visit markets.farmland.org. The Celebration began June 21, at noon and closes on Sept. 21, at midnight.

ALEX JOHNSON is the Membership Coordinator for American Farmland Trust. Contact Alex at ajohnson@farmland.org or 202-378-1220.