Sales up dramatically at farmers markets in Iowa

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey says that there has been a 92 percent increase in sales at farmers markets in Iowa over the last five years.

Report results released today by the department found the 223 Iowa farmers markets had about $59.4 million in direct and indirect sales in 2009. The 2009 Farmers Market Economic Impact Survey also found the markets in Iowa contributed to 374 direct jobs and more than 200 indirect jobs.

According to the report, about 99,000 customers and 1,500 vendors attended at least one Iowa market last year. The survey found market customers spent an average of $17.12 per visit.

Local reaction

Mickey Miller, 42, of Mount Vernon, and her husband David, 43, plan to sell asparagus, spinach and chocolate truffles at Saturday's Iowa City Farmers Market.

The couple, who are managers for Mount Vernon's market, also would sell lettuce but have been supplying salad greens for the Lincoln Cafe in Mount Vernon.

“We can't keep up with the demand,” she said.

There will be more reporting and in-depth information in tomorrow's edition of The Gazette.