"Going green" didn't start to go mainstream until it got personal. And nothing's more personal than the food we eat. That's why farmers markets are one of the great American environmental success stories of the early 21st Century.

More than 100 farmers markets can be found throughout western Washington in urban parking lots, suburban parks and small-town squares. Seattle and Tacoma alone boast a total of 22 farmers markets. They're so popular that most neighborhoods and towns without markets would love to have one. And many farmers markets are now open well into the fall.

The benefits of farmers markets have been well-documented. You can support local area farmers and find the freshest foods, with lots of organic options if that's your style. I also love the social part, meeting the farmers and running into friends and neighbors, not to mention random people-watching.

As a veteran market-goer and unabashed fan, here's my guide to help you get the most out of your farmers market experience:

- Go organic and save. Farmers markets have a reputation for being more expensive, and that may be true for certain items. But a three-year Seattle University research project has found that organic produce is cheaper at several Seattle farmers markets than at local supermarkets and food co-ops. For example, in May 2009, the researchers picked up 10 different organic produce items at the Broadway farmers market on Capitol Hill and found that the price for one pound averaged $4.40, compared with prices for the same organic items of $5.82 and $8.04 at two major supermarket chains, and $4.57 at a co-op.

- BYOB - Bring your own bag. The grocery bag fee proposal in Seattle may have gone down to defeat, but you can still save vendors money and reduce your environmental impact by showing up at the farmers market with your own bags. I use my backpack or a tote bag that I bought from the Neighborhood Farmers Market Alliance in Seattle, and I always bring several reused plastic produce bags from home for separate purchases.

- Get weird. One of the joys of visiting farmers markets is coming home with something off-the-wall. How about a few of those giant goose eggs, an exotic mushroom, those trippy turnip-y looking things with all the tendrils, or some chili chocolate ice cream? Some farmers markets even sell wine now!

- Early or late, both are great. Canny veterans like to be there for the opening bell, to get the very best selection. Sometimes delicacies sell out fast. But if you're not an early bird, consider showing up right before closing. You will often find some excellent deals then, since many farmers reduce their prices so they won't have as much to cart home.

- Don't be just a fair-weather shopper. I'm not sure why, but for me visiting the farmers market on a drizzly or blustery day is the most fun of all. The farmers are especially happy to see you, and you can pick up some veggies and make something warm at home, like soup. Don't forget that several farmers markets are open year-round, including the Ballard, University District and West Seattle markets in Seattle, as well as the Port Angeles market.

- Calling all carnivores. Farmers markets aren't just for veggie and fruit lovers. At many local markets you'll find an array of meats – often organic, pasture-raised or free-run – including pork, beef, veal, chicken, duck, lamb and goat.

- Expand your horizons. Each farmers market has its own personality. You may be a regular at the market in your own neighborhood, but it's fun to check out a new market once in awhile. My personal goal is to visit at least five farmers markets every year that I've never been to before. So far in 2009 I've added three new ones to my list, including the quirky, cool Vashon Island market. Find schedules and other info about area farmers markets at www.pugetsoundfresh.org. And spread the word - Kids and out-of-town visitors will love the farmers markets as much as you do!

Note: Tom adapted this article from a column he wrote recently for the Woodland Park Zoo's member magazine.

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