Contact:

Michelle Muth Person, (202) 260-8210

michellem.person@ams.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, March 20, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications from farmers, growers, and other producers for its Farmers Market, which will open on May 1, 2015. This year the market will be open on Fridays (except for July 3) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., from May 1 through October 30. The market is organized by the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and serves as an example of how farmers markets across the nation bring communities together around fresh, local foods and products.

The outdoor farmers market, located just off the National Mall at Independence Avenue and 12th Street, S.W., will celebrate its 20th season this year. USDA is also increasing the number of vendors in the market from 14 to 31. Like farmers markets around the country, USDA's Farmers Market plays an important role in creating economic opportunities for local farmers, ranchers, and small businesses.

Farmers, growers, and producers located in the Chesapeake Bay region (including the states of Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia), and preferably within a 200-mile radius of the District of Columbia, are eligible to participate in the market. USDA is seeking farmers and growers who sell what they grow, raise, or produce. Applications will be considered from producers in the following categories: baker, dairy product maker, fisherman/waterman, food concessions, meat processor, pasta maker, soap maker, Chesapeake Bay area specialty crop producer, and value added food producers.

USDA does not charge a fee to vendors who participate in the USDA Farmers Market, but vendors are required to commit to supporting the USDA gleaning/food recovery initiative in lieu of paying market fees.

More information about how to be considered for participation in the 2015 market season is available at www.usda.gov/farmersmarket or by calling 202-690-1300. Completed applications and all required documentation are due by midnight Eastern Time on Thursday, April 9, 2015.

#