Every spring, Kansans look forward to that week in April, when the Farmer’s Markets signs appear. Taking the brisk morning walk to the market, hearing joyful people interact, and understanding how these markets help the community is all part of the excitement. What few know is that there are plentiful resources to use to help one purchase local foods year-round. One does not have to become dormant of local food from November until April each year.

In a state that offers many opportunities for locally grown food, few know the resources for finding these foods, even when they are directly in sight. Different stores in Kansas can offer foods that have lower food miles, packaging, and pesticides than other alternatives—it is just a matter of finding these resources.

Along with purchasing foods from markets and reputable stores, it is important to emphasize the power held within one's own hands. A simple pot of soil and some seeds can turn into an array of fresh herbs or a season-long supply of tomatoes. With this, foods can also have better nutrients because of lower food miles and less shelf and travel time.

As the benefits of local foods are numerous, few can argue with the realization that they help support our own land and people. When purchasing foods from Kansas, the money supports families and also the community.