WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service is opening the updating process for the USDA National Farmers Market Directory, the official count of the nation’s farmers markets. For the first time this year, the directory will track farmers markets with multiple locations and operating days.

“The USDA National Farmers Market Directory not only counts, lists and maps the country’s more than 6,100 farmers markets, it is also a fantastic resource for those interested in local food production, small producer success, and public policy about regional food systems,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “In addition to helping people find the closest farmers market, the farmers markets listed in this directory are included in maps, mobile apps and other stats. We hope that all managers ensure their markets are included so that no farmers market misses out on this opportunity.”

Farmers market managers can update their listings at www.usdadirectoryupdate.com.

The National Farmers Market Directory will be periodically updated over the summer as farmers market managers continue to submit their listings to USDA’s database. Farmers market managers who are able to update their listing by May 1 will be able to find their markets on the directory by mid-July. The complete directory will be released in time for National Farmers Market Week, August 7-13.