Area farmers' markets make top 20 list

WASHINGTON - When it comes to fresh produce, several area farmers' markets are among America's favorites, according to a new poll by American Farmland Trust.

Among the nation's small markets, Smart Markets at Mason in Fairfax is No. 3, while Crossroads Farmers Market in Takoma Park is No. 4.

Bloomingdale Farmers Market in D.C. comes in at No. 7 in the small farmers' market category, which includes markets that have 30 or fewer vendors.

The rankings break the markets into small, medium and large markets.

In addition to the market in Fairfax, Virginia had five other markets make the three lists: Williamsburg, Historic Roanoke, Yorktown, Goochland and Virginia Beach.

Only California had more markets in the Top 20 with a total of seven. More than 800 markets participated in the contest.

Having six Virginia markets on the lists doesn't surprise Todd P. Haymore, commissioner of Virginia's Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

"Farmers' markets are a vital part of life in Virginia," he says. "They've become the new social gathering place, and they are a great way to meet the people who grow and raise your food and fiber. Because Virginia's industry of agriculture is so diverse, so are the offerings in our farmers markets."

In four years, the number of markets in Virginia has grown from 88 to 174.

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