Aug. 5-11, 2018 has been declared National Farmers’ Market Week by U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue.

“I love visiting local farmers’ markets and roadside stands,” said Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Commissioner Mike Strain. “That’s where you find the freshest fruits, vegetables and other Louisiana grown products.”

Strain noted that it is also a great way to support the local economy and meet the people who are growing your food.

The LDAF has again secured a grant from the USDA to participate in the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, allowing senior citizens to buy locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs and honey at farmers’ markets and roadside stands.

This program helps to increase access and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables by seniors, as well as supports local farming producers. Seniors who applied for the program this year have until Nov. 30 to visit their local farmers’ market or roadside stand to utilize their vouchers.

Applications are still being accepted at this time. Strain encourages senior citizens 60 years and older who meet certain income requirements to contact their parish Council on Aging to participate.

There are three farmers’ markets in Washington Parish:

• Bogalusa Farmers’ Market — 200 W. Fifth St., Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.
• Franklinton Farmers’ Market — Washington Street and Fifth Avenue, Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
• Cryer’s Family Produce-Roadside Stand in Mt. Hermon — 37122 Thomas Cryer Road (1/4 mile east of Vernon School Road), Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.