Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed Aug. 4-10 Washington Farmers Market Week.

The popularity in farmers markets continues to increase with an estimated 150-plus markets across the state.

Regional news outlets reported there is an increasing trend in consumers wanting fresh, locally-grown produce, meats, cheeses and specialty foods.

Lucky for us, we have an abundance of options on Whidbey Island.

Four out of seven days a week there’s an outdoor or farmers market to attend somewhere on the island.

For those of you who follow Examiner editorials, you know I’m a farmers market junky.

It’s important to support your local economy and shopping at these seasonal markets is a great way to do that.

Attending markets is a great way to explore new produce and learn different ways of eating.

Just last week, I learned about the wonders of broccolini. It’s something I’ve heard about, yet have yet to try — my friend grabbed the last bag.

I’m keeping my eye out to give it a try.

One of the wonderful aspects of the various markets is the vendors and farmers are eager to share information about their products.

You can tell they take pride in their work and the quality of their produce, and most eagerly share cooking methods and ideas for how to use their products.

If you haven’t checked out one of the island’s many markets, Washington Farmers Market Week is your incentive to do so.

Coupeville Farmers Market is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. The market is located on the community green near the public library.

Bayview Farmers Market, near Bayview Corner, is also open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

If purely organic is your preference, the Tilth Market operates 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays on State Highway 525 south of Freeland.

If you can catch a market during the week, both Oak Harbor and Clinton offer Thursday markets.

Oak Harbor’s market operates 4-7 p.m. and is located on State Highway 20 near the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce. Clinton’s market is open 3:30-7 p.m. and is located behind Dairy Queen.

On Fridays, Langley holds its Second Street Market 3-7 p.m.

Check them all out.