SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE KICKS OFF FARMERS MARKET TOUR WITH STOP IN TOMS RIVER
Community Farmers Markets Throughout State Opening, Offering Jersey Fresh Produce
For Immediate Release: June 13, 2012
Contact: Lynne Richmond
(609) 633-2954
(TOMS RIVER) 鈥� New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher today celebrated the beginning of community farmers market season in New Jersey with a visit to the Toms River Farmers Market.听 Today鈥檚 visit is the first of a series of stops by the Secretary over the coming weeks to highlight the nearly 150 farmers markets operating statewide and in every county.听 New Jersey鈥檚 farmers markets offer residents the opportunity to enjoy just-picked, Jersey Fresh produce directly from the state鈥檚 farmers, while supporting state agriculture and their local economies at the same time.
鈥淎ll the spring vegetables and herbs are available now, as well as other favorites, such as Jersey Fresh blueberries and sweet corn, which are a few weeks earlier than normal due to an unusually warm patch back in March,鈥� said Secretary Fisher.听 鈥淚t is a great time to visit your nearby farmers market, meet the farmers who grow your food and show your support the Garden State鈥檚 agriculture industry.鈥�
The Toms River Farmers Market is held Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in a parking lot at the corner of West Water and Irons Streets.听 It features produce from four farmers and a variety of vendors selling everything from seafood and meats to baked goods, nuts and candies.听 The market first opened in 2006 and is now operated by the Toms River Business Development Corporation, which administers the Toms River Business Improvement District.
Ocean County Freeholder Gerry Little and Toms River Mayor Tom Kelaher look on as Secretary Fisher rings the cowbell signifying the start to another season of the Toms River Farmers Market.听 Photo courtesy of Mayor Kelaher.
Farmers at the Toms River market and many markets throughout the state participate in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), which provides vouchers for the purchase of locally-grown fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs.听 The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) program administered by the State Department of Health and Senior Services allots $20 in checks to qualifying individuals, which are valid through November 30.
For complete information on locations, days and hours of community farmers markets throughout New Jersey, visit听.听
For more information on the WIC and Senior FMNP, visit: .
