The 2009 Delaware farmers’ market season has ended as the most profitable season ever, with 15 markets earning more than $1.1 million.

That is a 40-percent increase over last season, according to the Delaware Department of Agriculture. This season kicked off in April and ended last week for participating farmers.

“It is refreshing and gratifying to see the growth of Delaware’s Farmers’ Markets over the past several years,” said Agriculture Secretary Ed Kee.

Reaching the $1 million mark milestone signifies there is a demand and interest among Delaware consumers in home-grown, fresh, local produce, Kee said. It also acknowledges the job Delaware farmers do in producing high quality vegetables, fruit and other farm products.

“An overwhelming number of Delaware farmers stepped up to the plate this year and got involved in these farmers’ markets,” said DDA Marketing Communications Officer Kelli Steele. “It’s essential that farmers continue to be involved to make the markets a success. The market managers and volunteers are also to be commended for a job well done.”

The Delaware Department of Agriculture promoted the 15 statewide markets this year, an increase from 11 last year. Last year, the markets earned $798,000.

Those interested in becoming a vendor at any of the state’s farmers’ markets in 2010 can contact Steele at 302-698-4519, kelli.steele@state.de.us or log on to www.dda.delaware.gov and click on farmers’ markets for a complete list. Each market manager can be contacted individually.