Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Washington County Farmers' Market

Potosi, Missouri (Population 2,662) may be a small community, but it’s full of agricultural diversity and a very organized farmers’ market.

(Photo: Shawnee Douglas standing by the future site of the Washington County Farmers' Market on June 12)

The Washington County Farmers’ Market vendors have brought the Potosi community fresh fruits and vegetables for many years, as well as bringing the community closer.

According to Market Master Shawnee Douglas, their community’s local market is a family affair. The market incorporates a Garden & Grow Project where the farmers teach the kids how to grow a variety of plants each season and also offers visitors to the market games for both adults and children.


The market also participates in the Missouri Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and the Washington County Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. The FMNP is a federally funded program that provides eligible women, infants and children with checks that can be exchanged for eligible foods at markets. Each approved household receives six checks worth three dollars each, for a total of $18.00. The checks can be redeemed for locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables and culinary herbs at markets authorized by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

The Washington County Farmers’ Market is holding a Kick-Off Party on July 11 to celebrate their new pavilion at the Washington County Health Department parking lot. The new facility will have running water and electricity and a ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 9:00 am.

The Washington County Farmers’ Market is located next to the Washington County Health Department at 520 Purcell Drive. The market is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:30- sellout. For more information about the market please contact Shawnee Douglas at 573-438-2164.

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