A full return to farmer's market season is upon us. Producers have faced many hurdles in the past few years; they are relying on your support to stay...
Most people are familiar with radishes, those red-skinned, white-flesh, peppery vegetables often found on a salad bar. However, there are many other...
Every year, Illinoisans all over the state take advantage of farmers markets for local, fresh, in-season produce. Illinois is ranked #3 in the nation...
Berry season is arriving quickly, and it’s what gets me the most excited for those first few farmers markets near the end of May and early June where...
News Releases
Fields of dreams: From 4-H to cut flower grower
NORTHERN ILLINOIS – When Local Foods Small Farms Educator Grant McCarty is looking for inspiration, he makes his way to Clara Joyce Flowers. There, farmer Drew Groezinger inevitably has something new going on.
There are high tunnels being...
Central Illinois communities come together to feed families
COLES COUNTY, Ill. – When MaryBeth Massey developed a project to address food insecurity in her hometown, she wanted to start small. By partnering with a local Amish community produce auction, she aimed to provide 1,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to families in need in 2019.
...
Master gardeners to answer questions in-person at the farmer's market
MONTICELLO, Ill. – There is so much information available at our fingertips. How do you know which advice to follow? University of Illinois Extension is here to alleviate uncertainty by providing research-based answers to your questions.
“Our skilled and knowledgeable Piatt County...
Eat more fruits and vegetables with the help of your local farmers market
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – For Illinois residents who fall within the one in 10 American adults who don’t eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, farmers markets offer the chance for consumers to up their fruit and vegetable intake while supporting local farmers.
The variety of...
Farmers Markets and COVID-19 Guidelines for 2021
The 2021 farmers’ market season has already officially begun in some parts of the state. There are still plenty of cool-season vegetables available on the vendor tables, as well as freshly cut spring flowers and lots of herb and vegetable seedlings. Many of our local farmers have had the help of...