Projected gross sales at Kentucky farmers' markets for 2004 are $5.2-5.4 million. In 2003, Kentucky farmers' markets grossed $4.8 million, 20 percent more than estimated midway through the year. Average sales per market were about $55,000 last year.

"Farmers' markets are great for both the producer and the consumer," Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. "They give farmers a way to diversity from tobacco with low input costs and low risk. Consumers are happy because they can buy local, fresh products while helping their community. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is committed to helping our farmers' markets grow and helping consumers find fresh, nutritious and good-tasting Kentucky Proud foods."

About 20 percent of gross sales of Kentucky produce occur at farmer's markets. "There are likely additional sales taking place at the markets that go unreported," said Janet Eaton, farmers' market coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

Boone and Scott County had the highest sales per vendor in 2003, with Lexington and Franklin County following. Farmers' markets located near or in metropolitan areas tend to have the best sales, but small-town markets also get good community support, the UK economists found.

A record 96 markets are set up throughout the state. "There is greater variety of products than ever," said Eaton.

For more information on farmers' markets and locations, visit the KDA Web site, www.kyagr.com