RTD Article on Local Farmers Markets

The South of the James Farmers Market kicks off on May 1st. We are very proud of being a part of the market since the very beginning and are looking forward to seeing all the local vendors and Richmonders that come out in support. Yesterday's RTD has an article that takes a look at a couple of the vendors and the growth of Community Supported Agriculture.

The number of farmers markets in Virginia has doubled in the past six years to about 170, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

About five have cropped up in and around Richmond in the past couple of years.

"They have mushroomed, mainly due to the whole buy-local movement that started after Sept. 11," said Elaine Lidholm, spokeswoman for VDACS.

"People became concerned about their food securities. They were worried that terrorists could hit the food supply. . . . Some people turned their backyards into edible landscapes."

Remember to mark May 1st on your calendar and head on down the South of the James Farmers Market in Forest Hill Park to buy some fresh fruits & veggies and a cup or pound of locally brewed coffee at our own stand.