ALBANY  - New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker is encouraging consumers to seek out local produce and other New York produced foods at farmers' markets, even during these cold winter months. There are nearly 50 winter farmers' markets throughout the State that have moved their operations inside for the winter, while still offering locally produced goods.

"Just because it's cold outside does not mean you can no longer get local farm fresh produce and New York produced goods," the Commissioner said. "There are many storage and root vegetables, along with fruits, dairy products, wine, maple syrup, and more that are available during the winter months in New York. Because the demand for local food is so great, many farmers' markets have opted to stay in operation throughout the winter months. With winter farmers' markets popping up in communities all over, New Yorkers will have outlets for fresh, local foods all year long, and farmers will have the opportunity to generate income year round."

Traditionally operated in open-air venues, many farmers' markets in New York State have found local buildings or structures into which they can move for the winter season, while others tough it out in the cold. Some long-standing winter market facilities, such as the Rochester Public Market, the Central New York Regional Market, and the Clinton Bailey Market in Buffalo have benefited from the Department's Farmers' Market Grant Program, which has provided cost-share funding to help markets improve their facilities, and in some cases, help winterize market structures.

Winter farmers' markets may be limited in the varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables they offer in comparison to summer months, but still offer a wide array of local farm produce and goods. Some fresh produce items common at winter farmers' markets include apples, pears, potatoes, onions, carrots, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and winter squash. Other local "value-added" products include maple syrup, honey, wine, cider, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, breads, preserves, meats and more.