It will be fun ... like a treasure hunt," said Melissa Harrop, AgConnect communications coordinator, when describing the Chester County Farmers Market Trail, which invites people to experience 10 different farmers markets across Chester County and collect a stamp at each one. Those who complete a Farmers Market Trail card will receive a special "Ag Swag Bag."

"Sometimes vendors change, or what each vendor brings week to week may change depending on what their stock is," Harrop added. "Going to a farmers market is a new experience every time you go. You never know what you are going to find."

During the first-time event, being presented by AgConnect, local families are invited to take fun road trips to the various markets throughout the county.

Participating markets are Artisan Exchange in West Chester, Berwyn Farmers Market, Downingtown Farmers Market, Eagleview Farmers Market in Exton, KSQ Farmers Market in Kennett Square, Malvern Farmers Market, New Garden Growers Market in Landenberg, Oxford Village Market, Phoenixville Farmers Market and West Chester Growers Market. Trail maps are available at all participating farmers markets, or the map can be downloaded at http://www.go-agconnect.org.

AgConnect also produces the Chester County Farm Guide, which highlights family-owned farms and markets throughout Chester County. "I had contact information from putting the guide together," Harrop explained. "Once I sent out the email, (the farmers markets) were very receptive on doing the Farmers Market Trail. All 10 are in the farm guide, and I got everybody on board."

Farmers markets in Chester County offer freshly grown, locally produced products, such as meats, eggs, fresh produce, honey, flowers, wines and ciders. "You have staples - vegetables and meats," stated Harrop, "but then you have vendors that have artisan things like cheeses, jellies and jams. It's fun to see what's there."

She added that some farmers market vendors accept the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) card as payment.

Those who want to take part in the challenge should look for the Farmers Market Trail yard sign at each farmers market to collect a stamp. "They will stamp on back of the card which farmers market you are at," said Harrop. "Once all 10 stamps are collected, participants can submit a photo of their completed map through the website or leave their map at their final market stop. They will then be sent a free swag bag."

People have through the end of December to complete their trail maps. "It's important for people to realize when summer ends, farmers markets do not. Most of them have winter hours," Harrop noted. "The northern end to the southern end (of the county) may seem like a daunting (drive), but there is a long time to complete (the map) and check out (all the farmers markets)."

Harrop said that next year a different map may be featured, such as one that highlights local farms. "We are hoping to have themed trails throughout the years," she said. "We are starting with farmers markets and talking about next year's trail that consumers can do to learn about Chester County's agriculture. If we can get families in the community to understand and learn more about agriculture and the local food system, all the better."

For the location and opening hours of all farmers markets in Chester County, visit the aforementioned website. Those with questions may email mharrop@chesco.org.