The Minnesota Department of Agriculture issued a 'last call' to interested farmers who would like to advertise their businesses in the statewide Minnesota Grown Directory.

The directory lists farms and farmers markets that sell directly to consumers.

Deadline to be included in the directory is Jan. 31. Cost is $60, which includes advertising for one year in print and online. Payment includes membership access to other great Minnesota Grown member-only benefits, such as the use of the trademarked logo, and free stickers, price cards and other promotional items.

MDA issues 'last call' for farmer listings in the annual Minnesota Grown Directory

The 2015 edition of the Minnesota Grown Directory had a recording-breaking 1,027 farms and farmers markets, which the MDA aims to exceed this year.

This April, 155,000 copies of the directory will be distributed statewide at tourist centers, libraries, chambers of commerce, farms, and retailers. The online Directory, www.minnesotagrown.com, is also popular and had more than 300,000 visitors in 2015.

"Consumers have been demanding local foods and that demand has increased dramatically over the last few years. We are the best source to discover a nearby farm or market," said Jessica Miles, agricultural marketing specialist for the Minnesota Grown Program. "Our directory is the most comprehensive and commonly used guide to local foods, fibers, and fun available in Minnesota."

The Minnesota Grown Program has more than 1,200 members, representing fruit and vegetable farms, livestock producers, farmers markets, CSA farms, orchards, garden centers, farm wineries, Christmas tree growers and others.

Potential new members may download an application or sign up and pay online at www.minnesotagrown.com. Simply click on the "Become a Member" link beneath the "Members & Retailers" drop-down menu. You also may contact Miles with questions at 651-201-6170 or [email protected], or to request an application by mail.