Communities across the country will celebrate their local farmers markets during National Farmers Market Week, which takes place Aug. 7-13. The impact of these farmer-to-consumer transactions is greater than it appears on the surface. Now more than ever, farmers markets serve as anchors across American communities, positively influencing community health and wealth. Markets result in more viable regional economies and local farm businesses, increased access to fresh, nutritious food, and stronger social networks that help keep communities healthy.

Farmers markets are more than just an outle...