Williamsburg Farmers Market needs your vote

The Williamsburg Farmers Market is taking part in the America's Favorite Farmers Markets contest and needs your vote.

The 2012 contest began in June and will end at midnight Monday, Sept. 3.

American Farmland Trust, the founder of the contest, has the goal of saving America's farm and ranch land. Shopping at the farmers market helps keep farmers on their land.

Currently, farms closest to American cities are the providers of the local food found at many farmers markets that are being shut out due to development.

The purpose of the contest is to raise national awareness about local farm markets, how they support local farms and the importance of protecting farmland.

Aside from the contest, farmers can submit an essay to win the Farmers Market Inspiration Award. The $1,000 grand prize will be awarded to a farmer with an essay describing how farmers markets benefit their farm, family and community. Prizes for runners-up will also be awarded.

The award is hosted by the Farmers Market Coalition, Growing for Market magazine and American Farmland Trust.

To cast your vote for the Williamsburg Farmers Market, visit action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_contest.

To learn more about the market, visit williamsburgfarmersmarket.com or call 757-259-3768.

Filed under: COMMUNITY