Local produce is will be in the spotlight next week as Northwoods LEAN (Linking Education, Activity and Nutrition) and the Oneida County Health Department celebrate National Farmers’ Market week Aug. 7-13.  Farmers markets are an excellent way to provide consumers with healthy, fresh, affordable and convenient, locally grown food.

“Farmers markets are an important part of strong local and regional food systems that connect farmers with new customers and grow rural economies, according to U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “In many areas, they are also expanding access to fresh, healthy food for people of all income levels. National Farmers’ Market Week recognizes the growth of these markets and their role in supporting both urban and rural communities.”

This year marks the 17th annual National Farmers’ Market Week. Northwoods Farmers’ Markets will be running until mid-October so there’s plenty of timeto reap the benefits of the market. There are several locations throughout Oneida and Vilas County:

Hodag Farmers’ Market (runs through 10/15/16)

• Saturdays; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Pioneer Park in Rhinelander

Minocqua Farmers’ Market (runs through 10/14/16)

• Mondays; 3p.m. – 6 p.m. at the north end of Torpy Park – HWY 51
• Fridays; 8 a.m. – 1p.m. at the Minocqua Park Complex – HWY 70 W

Eagle River Farmers’ Market (runs through 10/15/16)

• Wednesdays; 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. just north of the bridge on HWY 45
• Sundays; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. just north of the bridge on HWY 45