Washington, DC - Congressman John Barrow (GA-12) announced today that the Sparta/Hancock Produce Growers Cooperative, Inc. will receive a $45,909 grant from the Department of Agriculture.  This grant was directed by the new farm bill to spread the use of farmers markets.  The USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service helps increase domestic consumption of agricultural commodities and improve farmers' income. The grants are authorized under the amended Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Marketing Act of 1976.

"As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I know how important farmers markets are to the community, and to farmers," said Barrow.  "I'm proud to have been a part of passing the bill that directed the creation of these grants.  We're lucky enough to be within driving distance of some of the best farms on earth.  This is a way for the community to enjoy our local gifts and for farmers to have a place to sell their products without having to pay the huge shipping costs that come with high gas prices.  "

The Sparta/Hancock Produce Growers Cooperative may use the money to establish, expand, and promote farmers markets and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities.

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Contact: Jane Brodsky, (202) 225-2823

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