There have been many advances in opening government data for transparency and opportunities for collaboration. One dataset that we’re particularly excited about has immediate practical benefits and opportunities to stimulate business nationwide.
The Agricultural Marketing Service maintains the National Farmers Market Directory and has been making some serious enhancements to the data based on feedback from you - consumers, business people, producers, to name a few. After adding geocode data in 2010 and making available on Data.gov, we’ve seen some awesome applications, not to mention our own updated directory and map.
You can now search for a market near you based on product availability, location and even nutrition assistance programs such as SNAP, WIC or the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
We hope that as a result, more people visit their local farmers market, can bring products to market and stimulate communities through new business and healthier lifestyles. It's amazing to think all of this is thanks, in large part, to data and improvements based on your feedback.
What will you think of next?
Check out the rest of our social media moments 8-4 here!