Farmer's markets crop up success in CT

New London (WTNH) - It seems more people are eating "green" these days, leaving Connecticut farmers' markets seeing more green.

The push toward farmer's markets is one that could not come at a better time.

Locally grown is a trend producing a bumper crop of farmers markets. Rick Holmberg, owner of Holmberg Orchards revealed his idea as to why people prefer buying fresh.

"They feel a little more secure," he said. "They know it hasn't traveled halfway around the world to get there."

In addition to his year-round Gales Ferry farm stand, Holmberg brings his apples and other fruits and vegetables to two weekly markets.

"It's a good way for us to get our product line and our name out to the general public," said Holmberg.

The number of farmers markets has grown to 125 around the state; this is up from 114 last year and just 22, twenty-five years ago. They give farmers a place to sell their meats and produce.

"The product is fresher," said New London resident John Frappier.

The State Department of Agriculture said people are eating fresh because they're eating healthier and they're trying to support local farmers.

"I think it's important now with the economy the way it is now to support our local producers, local shops," said Kathy DeAngelis of Waterford.

DeAngelis has been coming to Holmberg Orchards for years. "The help here has always been really wonderful," she said.

She has kept the farm in business even in this struggling economy.

"It hasn't hurt us as much as I feared that it might," said Holmberg. "We're still going strong. Well be here for a long time, yeah."

The secret to his success: diversifying.

Holmberg Orchards is now Holmberg Winery. The do five differed hard ciders and four fruit wines.

They also have a bake shop and a pick your own orchard. Smaller farmers rely on the farmer's markets to stay in business.

"I know in New London there are some of the local markets where you can buy fresh beef and so forth, and that's important too," said DeAngelis.

At this point, Holmberg Orchards can sell everything they produce except the hard cider and wine at farmer's markets. News Channel 8 has been told, though, there is a bill being considered which would allow farm wines to be sold at farmer's markets.