Fresh from the field

Buying food at a farmers market could mean more for your budget than ever this summer.

As gas prices hit $4 a gallon, customers can cut down on their own fuel costs by venturing to markets, market operators say. And by purchasing foods grown and prepared locally, customers can avoid the additional shipping costs that compound store prices.

The Moravia farmers market will give shoppers with Electronic Benefit Transfer cards the most bang for their buck by not only accepting the cards, but offering additional $5 coupons through the New York Fresh Checks program when those patrons spend more than $5.