Local park and recreation agencies provide access to locally grown fresh produce through farmers markets

Ashburn, Va. (Sept. 4, 2018) — According to a recent poll conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), 87 percent of Americans believe access to locally grown fresh produce — including farmers markets and fruit and vegetable stands — is important. Nearly 20 percent of park and recreation agencies nationwide administer or manage farmers markets — providing access to locally grown fresh produce for people who live in urban areas where garden space is limited.      

 

Farmers markets are especially popular among millennials (57 percent) and Gen Xers (55 percent) who believe access to locally grown fresh produce is very or extremely important. Baby boomers (48 percent) are not far behind. More women (56 percent) vs. men (48 percent) believe access to locally grown fresh produce is very or extremely important. 

“Individuals and families everywhere benefit from having access to healthy foods — especially fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Barbara Tulipane, CAE, NRPA president and CEO. “Those who don’t have access to locally grown fresh produce are encouraged to visit a farmers market or fruit stand where there are healthy options for everyone.”

This poll is part of NRPA’s Park Pulse, a continuing series of monthly surveys that gauge the public’s opinion on topics relating to parks and recreation. To explore previous Park Pulse survey results, visit www.nrpa.org/Park-Pulse.   

To view the interactive charts with the survey results, click here.

To view the full-size infographic, click here.

To learn more about NRPA, visit www.nrpa.org.   

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About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.