The Delaware Department of Agriculture has delayed the opening of farmers market.
“The decision made to delay the opening of seasonal farmers’ markets in communities throughout Delaware was not an easy one. We know that Delaware family farms depend on the direct sales to consumers at farmers’ markets. Just like you, we want to reopen the markets, but operating changes have to be made to protect the health of our farming community, consumers, and market staff,” the department stated.
Neighboring Maryland listed the markets as essential businesses since that state’s emergency order was imposed. There have been growing calls to change the status of the markets.
Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) has asked the farmers’ market managers throughout the state to develop a plan to safely re-open farmers’ markets.
The department will review the plan submitted by the Delaware Farmers’ Market Coalition and will make revisions based on the guidance provided by the Division of Public Health, to ensure that farmers’ markets address all safety protocols for COVID-19 before they are allowed to reopen.
“We appreciate your understanding and are hopeful that conditions will improve to the point where it is safe for the reopening of farmers’ markets in Delaware,” the department stated.
