Now that crops have been planted, farmers markets throughout the state are kicking in to full gear for the summer. This is a great opportunity for Hoosiers to buy fresh produce and other goods directly from the source.
Locally, the Warrick County Farmers Market on Boonville's square is now open 7:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through October, and the Newburgh Farmers Market at Old Lock & Dam Park on the riverfront is open 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through Aug. 21.
Both markets feature a variety of locally raised and grown meats and produce from farmers, as well as homemade products like baked goods and crafts. These markets are wonderful for finding fresh, healthy food and original items from local vendors. Buying local products is the best way to directly support our agricultural and artisan communities.
There's also an online marketplace for Hoosier-made goods at ShopIndianaGrown.org. The website features available products from more than 1,700 members, and even recipes and guides for exploring Indiana's wineries, breweries, orchards and Christmas tree farms.
This session, I co-sponsored a new law tasking industry stakeholders with recommending ways to ensure the safety of homemade products. This law still provides flexibility for home-based vendors to sell directly to Hoosiers. This is especially important when an event like a pandemic causes issues in our traditional supply chain, which can result in buying limits and higher prices.
Supporting our agricultural producers enables local communities to buy fresh food and sustain a thriving industry that's crucial to our state's economy. If you have ideas on how we can further improve the marketplace for home-based vendors, please contact my office by calling 317-232-9769 or email h75@iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) represents House District 75,
which includes portions of Pike, Spencer and Warrick counties.
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