WASHINGTON, September 17, 2009 - The U. S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service today released "Opening a Farmers Market on Federal Property: A Guide for Market Operators and Building Managers." The publication was jointly published by the Urban Development/Good Neighbor Program of General Services Administration, which administers most federal buildings.

This publication discusses the issues involved in locating a farmers market on federal property: security, insurance needs, parking, the use of utilities and amenities, and all the other things you need to consider. It tells who to contact for information, points to some helpful government Web sites and offices, and offers case studies of successful farmers markets on public property.

Federal properties may be good places for farmers markets, because they can boost traffic, since many federal buildings are prominently positioned in central business districts. Sites in buildings, on grounds or in parking lots are frequently available for minimal or no cost.

"Opening a Farmers Market on Federal Property: A Guide for Market Operators and Building Managers" is available online at www.ams.usda.gov/MarketingServicesPublications

or www.gsa.gov/goodneighbor, and in print form by request from Velma Lakins, Marketing Services Division, Transportation and Marketing Programs, AMS, Room 2646-South, STOP 0269, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20250; by phone at (202)720-8317; fax at (202)690-0031; or e-mail to Velma.Lakins@usda.gov.

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