More farmers markets in Wisconsin accepting food stamps

A growing number of farmers markets in Wisconsin are accepting food stamps.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says 11 farmers markets in the state are participating in the FoodShare program. They're in every corner of the state, from Superior to Janesville to Milwaukee.

Ross Cohen manages the Monona Farmer's Market in south central Wisconsin. He tells Wisconsin Public Radio his market began accepting food stamps because vendors can sell more, while customers get healthy food that's locally grown.

He says people can use the stamps to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, honey and cheeses.

The ongoing recession has led to a surge in food-stamp usage.

The USDA says the number of Wisconsin residents using them has increased almost 25 percent compared to last year.