Delaware Local Produce Week focuses on farmers' markets

The second day of Delaware Local Produce Week focused on one of the most enjoyable ways to get local produce into the hands of local consumers – the farmers' market.

There are 23 farmers' markets operating in Delaware. According to the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA), they collectively tallied sales of $2.6 million in 2014 – a new record and double the mark set five years earlier.

State Reps. Harvey Kenton, Ruth Briggs King and Steve Smyk joined DDA officials Tuesday for a firsthand look at one successful operation in the resort area.

Rehoboth Beach Farmers' Market Manager Pat Coluzzi said the market started nine years ago and is operated by a 501c3 non-profit organization largely staffed by volunteers. There are openings for 36 stalls at the market, which has a list of vendors waiting to participate. The event is held in Grove Park every Tuesday, noon to 4 p.m.  Patrons can park up to two blocks away, without a permit, while the market is being held.

To find a list of all farmers’ market held in Delaware go to dda.delaware.gov/marketing/FarmersMarketsGuide.shtml

The Department of Agriculture also offers a free Delaware Fresh app that provides users with an interactive map showing the locations of more than 80 farm stands and markets throughout the state.  For more information, go to delaware.gov/topics/apps.shtml