THE PENDING FARMERS' MARKET FIASCO: SMALL-TIME FARMERS, PART-TIME SHOPPERS, AND A BIG-TIME PROBLEM

Article Written By: Brandon Baird

Farmer's Markets are booming. The number of farmers' markets in the United States has more than doubled, increasing from 1,755 in 1994 to 4,685 markets in 2008. Numerous factors may have contributed to this explosive growth: our national food chain is susceptible to bioterrorism; local farmers' markets may reduce a consumer's carbon footprint because the food travels shorter distances.' These enterprises support local farmers and neighboring communities by keeping money in the local economy. However, new customers means new liability for farmers who are often uninsured. This article explores this pending issue and the risks facing every Saturday farmers market.

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