AC

More neighborhood farmers markets, where consumers can buy fruit and vegetables from local producers, are cropping up across the USA. Over the past decade, farmers markets have increased 71%, U.S. Department of Agriculture figures show. In July, the department reported that nearly 4,900 markets operate nationwide, up about 5% from the end of last year. Factors driving the surge include a growing desire by consumers to know more about food sources, concern over the environment and an increased sense of community, agriculture experts, farmers and customers say. "It's perfect for us," Deputy Agriculture Secretary Kathleen Merrigan says. "We want to find ways to help people live healthier lifestyles and eat more fruits and vegetables, and increase the economic prosperity for farmers." Farmers markets got a high-profile boost this month when first lady Michelle Obama gave a speech at the opening of a market in Washington. Obama has made locally grown produce part of her push to get...