Deadline to Be Included in Minnesota Grown Directory Approaches

Specialty crop producers in Minnesota could benefit greatly from being added to the Minnesota Grown Directory.
Specialty crop producers in Minnesota could benefit greatly from being added to the Minnesota Grown Directory.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has announced that it is nearly set to print the Minnesota Grown Directory of farms and farmers markets selling directly to consumers. Individuals who would like to be included in the directory must apply for a $60 membership by January 31, 2016. Qualifying applicants must grow or raise products in order to be listed.

“Consumers have been demanding local foods and that demand has increased dramatically over the last few years,” said Jessica Miles, agricultural marketing specialist for the Minnesota Grown Program. “We are the best source to discover a nearby farm or market,” Our directory is the most comprehensive and commonly used guide to local foods, fibers, and fun available in Minnesota.”

In addition to being listed in the directory, individuals who apply for a membership will be able to use the trademarked directory logo, price cards, and other promotional items.

The 2015 edition of the Minnesota Grown Directory had 1,027 farms and farmers markets, shattering previous records. A total of 155,000 copies of the directory will be distributed throughout the state at tourist centers, libraries and chambers of commerce this year.

Currently, the Minnesota Grown Program has more than 1,200 members who represent both fruit and vegetable farms, livestock producers, farmers markets and many others. Individuals who want to apply by the January 31 deadline can visit www.minnesotagrown.com or call 651-201-6170 to receive an application by mail.