(NAFB.com) – American Farmland Trust has launched its 18th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration, a nationwide campaign designed to recognize farmers markets and their contributions to local agriculture, communities and small businesses. The nonprofit organization said consumers can vote for their favorite markets through the program’s website, helping markets gain national recognition and compete for a share of $15,000 in prize money. AFT President and CEO John Piotti said farmers markets serve as critical infrastructure for local agriculture by helping farm families earn income while strengthening community connections to food production. The organization said its online directory includes more than 7,000 farmers markets nationwide, helping consumers locate markets in their communities and while traveling. Since 2008, the celebration has highlighted the role of farmers markets in supporting local economies and food systems.