FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
For more information contact:
Bill Clary
(502) 564-1137

 

Kentucky Proud fruits and vegetables are at their peak of freshness and availability

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky’s growing season is at its peak, which means a wide variety of Kentucky Proud produce will be available for the next several weeks at farmers’ markets, restaurants, retail outlets, and Kentucky Farm Bureau roadside markets throughout the Commonwealth.

“There’s nothing like fresh sweet corn, a juicy tomato right off the vine, or delicious local watermelon,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “They taste good, and they’re good for you. Plus, buying local helps Kentucky farm families make a living.”

A return to average temperatures and regular rainfall in mid-June set the stage for a great selection of popular summer produce.

“Most farmers were able to get their vegetables planted on time,” said Adam Watson, produce marketing specialist for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. “Yields should be about average, and there shouldn’t be any significant delay on harvest.”

Early spring rains in Kentucky delayed planting of greens, lettuce, green onions, peas, radishes, and turnips. That was particularly true this spring with the always-popular strawberry crop. Normal weather patterns in June helped the crops currently being sold at the markets.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Kentucky Department for Public Health and the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, provides producers with marketing, educational, cost-sharing, and technical assistance. The Department and its partners operate the Good Agricultural Practices program, which educates producers on production and handling practices to reduce the risk of contamination of fresh fruits and vegetables.

To find a farmers’ market near you, visit the KDA website at www.kyagr.com. Under “Programs,” select “Farmers’ Markets,” then click on “2011 Farmers’ Market Directory.”

To find retailers and restaurants that sell Kentucky Proud foods, go to www.kyproud.com.

For a directory of Kentucky Farm Bureau roadside markets, go to www.kyfb.com/federation/markets.