GRANHOLM - Granholm Visits Capitol Farmers' Market, Underscores Benefits of Supporting Local Economy

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today visited the "Buy Fresh, Buy Local - Select Michigan" farmers' market on the State Capitol lawn to underscore the benefits of purchasing local agricultural products. Granholm said supporting local farmers' markets is a great way to ensure that money stays in Michigan and, in some cases, can be a money-saver for the consumer since local products aren't being shipped long distances, which can increase fuel costs that are passed along to shoppers.

"Buying locally means consumers receive fresher, high-quality foods, and these local purchases support local farmers, agri-businesses, rural communities, and Michigan's economy," Granholm said. "In fact, if every Michigan household spent just $10 per week on Michigan-produced food, it would generate nearly $40 million each and every week in economic activity."

In her efforts to help citizens save money in the face of a tight economy, Granholm encouraged citizens to visit the SaveMoney feature on the state Web site, which offers an easy way to find a u-pick or farmers' market location based on product, county, or region. Earlier this month, Granholm unveiled the new feature that combines information from throughout state government into one, easy-to-find location at www.michigan.gov/savemoneyto help Michigan citizens save money.

Michigan grows more than 200 agricultural commodities, making it the second-most diverse state in the nation and generating $63.7 billion for the state. Michigan has more than 160 community farmers' markets statewide, with more starting every season as the demand for local products grows.

"Farmers' markets are an excellent way to experience the freshness, variety, and value of products grown and produced in our state," said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) director. "So, make sure to visit your local farmers' market to purchase more tasty Michigan products."

More than 50 Michigan farmers and specialty food and agriculture producers displayed and sold their wares at the market. Patrons were able to purchase a wide variety of products from fresh Michigan fruits and vegetables to jams, honey, maple syrup, lamb, fresh baked goods, wool products, Lake Superior whitefish, and more. Farmers also sold a wide variety of cut flowers, annuals, perennials, and herbs.

This event is the first of three special farmers' markets planned this year to promote the benefits of local foods. Special markets will also be held August 22 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and on "Select Michigan Day" at the State Capitol in Lansing on September 18.

This is the fourth year a Michigan farmers' market has been held at the Capitol. It was sponsored by MDA's Select Michigan Program and the Michigan Food & Farming Systems with funding from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, and additional support from the Michigan Farmers Market Association and the Food Bank Council of Michigan.

For more information regarding the Michigan Farmers' Market Association, visit www.farmersmarkets.msu.edu. Information about the Select Michigan Program can be found at www.selectmichigan.org.

Jeanne Lipe, MDA development specialist, at 517-373-9790 can answer questions concerning the upcoming special farmers' markets in Detroit and Lansing.