Illinois Correspondent

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Many Illinois town squares become a mecca for visitors on days the local farmers’ market is open. These markets not only allow locals to buy fresh produce, but provide an outlet for farmers to sell their wares.

The popular market just got a boost. Illinois producers growing fruits, vegetables and specialty crops received notice that up to $7,500 in grant money is available through the Illinois Farmers’ Market Advertising Grant Program.

Monies have been channeled into the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) through the federal specialty crop program. The funds are available through Illinois Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich’s Opportunity Returns program. Several farmers’ markets have the chance to obtain funding, since more than $175,000 is available. This program has spent nearly $400,000 to expand specialty crops through promotional materials and advertising.

“Farmers’ markets are good for local economies, good for consumers and, ultimately, good for our entire state,” Blagojevich said. “Communities that sponsor farmers’ markets benefit from increased tourism, and consumers benefit from wholesome, locally-grown food. These grants will help support and expand the state’s agricultural economy.”

The state of Illinois has more than 220 farmers’ markets operating throughout the state. Numbers have increased dramatically, with only 97 markets in operation back in 1999. IDOA stated that according to a 2003 Illinois Specialty Crop Survey, more than 117,000 acres of farmland is devoted to growing specialty crops, producing nearly $137 million in sales for Illinois farmers.

“Illinois’ fertile soil and favorable climate are good for growing a wide variety of crops,” state Agriculture Director Chuck Hartke said. “While most people know Illinois ranks second in the production of corn and soybeans, many don’t realize Illinois is the nation’s largest producer of pumpkins and ranks among the top 10 states in the production of such specialty crops as asparagus, cauliflower, fresh cut herbs, peas, lima beans and mustard greens. “These grants will help expand markets for this produce and increase the competitiveness of our specialty crop industry.”

IDOA will accept applications through Nov. 7. The forms can be obtained on the department’s website at www.agr. state.il.us or by calling Kim Janssen at 217-785-5848. Grants will be awarded by Feb. 1, 2008.

This farm news was published in the Sept. 26, 2007 issue of Farm World, serving Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee.