M Farmers Markets bringing fresh produce to campus

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Finding affordable, farm fresh vegetables and fruits on campus just got easier thanks to the M Farmers Markets, currently available at six Ann Arbor campus locations, with more being added each month through the fall.

The M Farmers Markets are sponsored by MHealthy, Michigan Medicine, MDining, Central Student Government and Planet Blue.

“As with many of our sustainability and environmentally friendly programs, the M Farmers Markets are a healthy initiative that was created through a collaboration between the university, its students and our community partners, and is now a campuswide weekly event for all across campus to enjoy,” says Keith Soster, director of student engagement for Michigan Dining.

“These markets also illustrate our university’s commitment to working with our community partners for local purchasing and encourage others to do so as well.”

In addition to fresh produce, other farm products like flowers, herbs and patio pots will be available at select locations. Purchases can be made with cash, or credit or debit cards. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags.

Vicki Zilke of Zilke Vegetable Farm in Milan is one of several area farmers the university has partnered with for its M Farmers Market events. (Photo by Scott C. Soderberg, Michigan Photography)

M Farmers Market locations include:

Starting this month

• East Ann Arbor Health Center — Every Tuesday, through Sept. 26 (except Aug. 1)

• University Hospital Courtyard — Every Thursday, through Sept. 28

• Wolverine Tower — Select Tuesdays, through Nov. 28

• North Campus Research Complex — Select Tuesdays, through Sept. 26

• Shared Services — June 21, July 19, and Aug. 30

• KMS — June 28, July 19, and Aug. 30

Starting in July

• Briarwood Circle — July 12 and Aug. 9

• Administrative Services Building — Select Wednesdays, July 12-Sept. 20

• Space Research Parking Lot — Select Thursdays, July 20-Aug. 31

Starting in August

• South Ingalls Mall — Aug. 2

Michigan Union — Aug. 16

Expanded markets in September and October

Four expanded market days will take place this fall, on South Ingalls Mall on Sept. 14 and Oct. 12, and the Grove/North Campus Diag on Sept. 28 and Oct. 26. Fresh fruits, vegetables and other locally sourced foods will be available from a variety of local farms, including U-M’s student-run campus farm.

These events will also include chef demonstrations, tips for healthy eating, free samples, giveaways, information stations and more.

Community Supported Agriculture

The university is also working with local farms to offer Community Supported Agriculture programs on or near campus, including delivery to Ann Arbor campus buildings.

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