Farmers Markets Growing ... Too Fast?

Rhode Island has seen an explosion in the number of farmers markets — from just 15 in 2004, the number has grown to 55 this year. The markets connect farmers to customers and stimulate the local economy, but are there too many markets? Is the growth sustainable? ecoRI News talks with Bevan Linsley, market manager for the Aquidneck Growers' Market and Coastal Growers' Market, and Sarah Lester, markets coordinator for Farm Fresh Rhode Island.

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Farmers Markets Growing Fast

Comments

[Marc Capaldi]

The more farmers markets there are : then the less fuel consumed to get local foods to market. This is a major plus to the buy and grow local movement. Picking winners and talking about sustainability of the markets is a conversation for operators and any action to limit the number is protectionist and big government in nature. Something growing so naturally and organicially should not be limited as it furthers freedom of choice and promotes availability of healthy choices. With gas at $ 4 a gallon and a likely rise in price to $6 in five years the availability of fresh produce for those who can not afford to travel great distances for produce will hurt availability.