ST. PAUL, Minn. - Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton /governor/assets/farmers_market_week_2014.pdf_tcm1055-92383.pdfhas proclaimed August 3-9, 2014, as "Farmers Market Week" in Minnesota to celebrate the benefits of farmers markets and the agricultural products farmers provide.

The popularity of farmers markets has increased, in part, because of the interest in healthier foods and lifestyles and an increased understanding of the importance of maintaining small, sustainable farms. Local farmers are able to offer consumers a variety of products including heirloom vegetables, heritage breeds of livestock, and other specialty products.

Minnesota Grown spokesman Paul Hugunin says more than 175 farmers markets are found in the Minnesota Grown Directory.

"The directory makes it easy to find what locally grown foods are available at the farmers market in my neighborhood and at hundreds of locations throughout the state," said Hugunin. "These markets not only offer farm-fresh, healthful products, they also provide an important opportunity for consumers and farmers to interact."

Many farmers markets throughout the state are hosting special events during Farmers Market Week. Contact your local farmers market to find out more or find farmers market locations at www.minnesotagrown.com.