The Coos Bay Farmers Market joins markets across the country in celebrating National Farmers Market Week from August 6-12. The Farmers Market on Wednesday, August 9th will be hosting a family coloring contest, entertainment from So It Goes Coffeehouse, and giveaways sponsored by Banner Bank, Coos County OSU Extension Food Hero Program, TAKE ROOT Magazine, and donations from market vendors during regular market hours 9 am to 2 pm on Central Avenue. The Farmers Market Celebration will also include a “Why I love Farmers Market” activity. Activity participants will be eligible for the prize of a pair of tickets (a $40 value) to the “Crop-Up” Market and Dinner Showcase that includes a six course farm to fork dinner. The event is hosted by Food Innovation Center at OSU Extension and the Oregon Department of Agriculture on August 17th from 4-8:30pm at the North Bend Community Center. As demand for local food continues to grow, so too have the opportunities for America’s farmers to market fresh food directly to the consumer. According to statistics recently released by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), farmers markets and farm stands account for roughly $2 billion of the $3 billion that Americans spend annually on farm-direct products . This revenue, in turn, supports the livelihoods of more than 165,000 mostly small and mid-sized farms and ranches. The Coos Bay Farmers Market began in 2000, and currently hosts 30 farmers selling a wide variety of products, including fruits, veggies, mushrooms, honey, and pasture-raised meats. In the most recent season, the Coos Bay Farmers Market generated over $12,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) for these local producers while feeding the community of Coos County, a valuable economic boost for the region. “The Coos Bay Farmers Market is organized through the Coos Bay Downtown Association with the goal of bringing local goods to consumers while developing the culture of our downtown area,” says Ashley Audycki, Market Manager. “ We have seen a great growth in vendors, attendees, and fun activities from our partners. We look forward to continuing the fantastic growth of local food by showcasing how beautiful and delicious local food truly is.” “Farmers markets play a vital role not just in generating real income for farmers, but in forming a healthy, prosperous food systems,” says Jen Cheek, Executive Director of the Farmers Market Coalition. “By providing the opportunity for farmers to connect directly with consumers, markets serve as education centers. Vendors are teaching customers about agriculture and sharing recipes and new foods with their neighbors. Markets are making people and communities stronger and healthier.
