John Rich Of Big N Rich Now USDA Envoy Plus Yingling Leaving State Fair Board

What value does a farmers market have for a community?  Is it just about the transactions, or is there more?  A study funded by a USDA grant and involving UW-Madison researchers focused on that question.  Kiley Allan finds out about the results from Bret Shaw, UW-Madison Communications Specialist.  Shaw says the researchers conducted a national study to provide market operators with actionable data to boost attendance, increase consumer spending, and better communicate the community value of farmers markets to stakeholders. The research identified six consumer categories, highlighting the three groups most likely to visit: the "highly engaged" (who love the social atmosphere and local experience), the "health-focused" (who prioritize organic, local, and non-GMO produce), and the "emerging interest" group. The newly identified "emerging interest" demographic consists of younger shoppers who are less focused on buying raw ingredients to cook at home and more interested in the social environment and ready-to-eat prepared foods. To accommodate changing consumer preferences, markets are increasingly featuring vendors that sell prepared foods and specialized items (such as hot breads, baked goods, and meats) rather than strictly traditional raw fruits and vegetables. With over 8,600 markets operating nationwide, farmers markets are increasingly recognized by community leaders as vital hubs that promote healthier eating habits, foster a sense of local belonging, and build resilient regional food systems. What are the 'dog days' all about?  That's the starter conversation with Stu Muck on a Monday morning.  The forecast isn't offering  much moisture this week to offset all the heat expected. Stu explains the cycle the states caught in. In June the White House announced that John Rich, or Big N Rich country duo fame, became a USDA envoy working with farmers and landowners nationwide.  Rich says he was personally caught in a land dispute with the state of Tennessee, so he understands the disadvantage farmers face when someone wants their land.  He'll report directly to USDA's Brooke Rollins and the President.  He explains what he's heard so far. Last week the WI State Fair Park announced that John Yingling would be retiring after 16 years of service, most recently as board chair.  Pam Jahnke visits with the fair veteran who started his relationship with the fair when he was a kid in the neighborhood.  Yingling says he never liked going to the fair with his mother.  He explains how that didn't stop him from making the WI State Fair, a big part of his life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.