Blog Analysis

http://mofarmersmarket.blogspot.com/

I found this blog about six weeks ago, while researching agri-tourism and organic food production to prepare for an interview. I knew that blogging was growing in popularity and that some professionals were using blogs as communication tools, however, I did not expect to find pages representing the Missouri Department of Agriculture. I’ve found myself clicking back to this page periodically since the initial visit – frequent updates make this one “stickier” than most blogs I’ve found, and it is pleasing on technical, aesthetic and content levels.
Technically, this blog is very sound. The page loads quickly, even on a dial-up connection and is simple to navigate. Few additional applications, like audio or video effects, keep the page streamlined. Simple colors, basic fonts and few pictures are a sacrifice on aesthetics, however. The page has maintained a consistent look since its establishment in the early summer of 2007.
This professional blog provides a wealth of information for anyone interested in farmers markets, organic foods or Missouri agri-tourism. It is produced by the state department of agriculture, and is updated nearly daily. The page also provides links to Web sites with more specialized information and applications for private and government programs to support both niche and mainstream agriculture. Calendars and upcoming events are also promoted on this site, informing the public and encouraging participation.