Washington, D.C., August 28, 2012 —As the summer draws to a close, don’t miss your chance to cast a ballot in American Farmland Trust’s fourth annual America’s Favorite Farmers Markets™ contest at www.votemyfarmersmarket.org .  Voting closes on September 3 at midnight Eastern time, when four winning markets—one small, one medium, one mid-size, and one large—will receive the title of America’s Favorite Farmers Market for 2012.

More than 7,000 markets across America are competing in the nationwide contest that began in July and runs throughout the summer.  The goal of the contest is to highlight the role that farmers markets play in keeping family farmers on the land. 

“Farmers markets provide opportunities for family farmers to connect with consumers and sell produce directly," said American Farmland Trust President Jon Scholl.  “They bring a level of economic viability to farmers while offering delicious local foods and fun gathering spots that brighten the summer.”

According to the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest rules, people can vote for as many participating farmers markets as they choose, but can only vote for each market once.  The winning markets will be featured in the media and receive a plaque from American Farmland Trust. A certificate will also be awarded to the top vote-getters in each state.

In addition to the winning markets, the winner of the Farmers Market Inspiration Award will be announced at the conclusion of the contest.  The $1,000 grand prize will be awarded to a farmer-producer whose essay best illustrates why farmers markets matter to their farm, family, and community.  The Award is hosted by the Farmers Market Coalition in partnership with Growing for Market magazine and American Farmland Trust.  Runner up prizes will also be awarded.

For more information about the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest or to vote, visit www.votemyfarmersmarket.org.  Those interested in helping to get out the vote via social media are encouraged to use the short-cuts http://bit.ly/d8esGi on Facebook and Twitter.

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