News 12 This Morning at 6 o'clock / Wednesday, April 20, 2011

AIKEN, S.C. --- Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are often linked to destroying the environment and your health. That is why some shoppers are turning to farmers markets which are open for business now in Aiken and Augusta.

Farmers harvesting their best crops have already set up shop at Aiken's oldest farmer's market. "People come because they like fresh and locally grown," said Marlene Stevens, a farmer from Saluda county.

Ready for your business with ripe red radishes and greens on her table, Marlene says she uses fewer pesticides to keep her crops safe and she's hoping that weighs your decision to buy fresh produce from local farmers.

"Everything goes through a process to make sure that it is safe, clean and viable for the public," explained Terry Huet, the market manager at the farmer's market in Aiken.

Dr. Jessica Reichmuth is an Assistant Biology Professor at Augusta State University, she says, "Usually the organics contaminants are broken down into our body and stored into our fat. Cancer is one of the biggest associations with dioxins. That's one of the major concerns with pesticides, not washing them."

She also adds farmers who grow organically maybe contributing fewer contaminants into waterways in our region. "The smaller operations tend to be more environmentally friendly, because there is less soil stress."

And according to Dr. Reichmuth, there are some noticeable benefits to picking up organics.

"If you eat less modified foods obviously you are getting more nutrients, instead of fillers. That's usually what is added to processed foods," Dr. Reichmuth explained.

If you are looking to buy only a few organic products, researchers recommend buying fruits that have edible skins organic. The skin is what holds the most residue from pesticides.

Shoppers worried about pinching pennies with high food prices have another added benefit depending on what they are picking up at the local market.

"Right now with the high price of gas and trucking in our food, food is just sky rocketing right now," Huet said.

With no middle man trucking produce into local farmer's markets, there are savings that are passed down to you, especially for food that is in season.

The Aiken's Farmer's Market is located on Richland Ave. and Williamsburg Street. This month the market is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Starting in May it will be open Monday through Saturday. Augusta also has a farmer's market which is open everyday and located at 1150 5th Street.