King County Executive Dow Constantine declared Aug. 5-11 as Farmers Market Week in King County and encouraged residents to support local farming.

“It’s prime time for produce, and part of what makes King County such a great place to live is our local farms and the fresh healthy produce they bring to our neighborhood farmers markets,” he said in a press release statement.

August brings the largest variety of fruits and vegetables of the year, according to King County farm specialist Steve Evans, including a great assortment of berries, early ripening varieties of apples and pears, plus corn, peppers and greens.

King County farmers also raise pork, beef and chicken, and craft their own artisan cheese and other dairy products that can be matched with fresh produce to make a great meal, he said.

“Our farmers markets are amazing all season long, but harvests are really kicking up a notch now. August is just a tremendous time to visit your local farmers market, find delicious, nutritious food and talk directly to the farmer who grew it,” Evan said.

Farmers markets generate more than $20 million in King County income each year.

Card-carrying shoppers also now have more ways to use their credit, debit, Electronic Benefit Transfer food stamp cards for fresh produce at 21 farmers markets in King County.

In each of their communities, farmers markets are also partnering with local food banks and meals programs to provide healthy food to those in need. In 2011, King County farmers markets supported local anti-hunger initiatives through the donation of 57 tons of unsold food.

For a list of farmers markets and farms in King County, visit www.pugetsoundfresh.org.

The Maple Valley Farmers Market is held from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School.

More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.