The nation’s local food systems, vital to our health, security and economic well-being, have long been an under-recognized as force for regional economic development. As these systems have become more nationally and internationally focused our rural and even urban communities have suffered. In fact, many of our country’s cities and towns would run out of fresh food in just three days if national distribution channels were interrupted.
Markets are the focal point for the restoration of these local food systems. A recent study showed if the Detroit region sourced only 20% of its fresh food from local sources, it would create over 4,000 jobs.
Moreover, public markets are one of the few places where the divergent worlds of city and country meet and mutually support each other. Through commerce and conversation public markets link urban and rural economies and communities.
Resources
Expanding the Potential of State and Regional Farmers Market Associations
Projects
Boston Market District, Boston, MA
Flint Farmers Market, Flint, MI