Guest feature: Brian Sheavly is the marketing director forthe Howard County Economic Development Authority. Follow HCEDA on Facebookand Twitter.

Howard County is welcoming summer with the return of its local farmers markets.

This month, the county will be hosting farmers markets at five different locations, four days a week. Residents and outsiders alike can buy delicious produce, meats, baked-goods and cuisine made right here in Howard County.

"One of Howard County's greatest assets is its agricultural community," said County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. "Our local farms are an essential part of the county's character and charm, and farmers markets make it easy for residents to support them."

The Howard County Library System will host local food producers every Wednesday until November 15, at its Miller Branch in Ellicott City and every Thursday throughout October 26, at its East Columbia Branch in Columbia. The new Clarksville Commons is also hosting markets every Thursday.

The Ellicott City Old Town Market will operate every Saturday until October 28 out of The Wine Bin parking lot off Main Street in Historic Ellicott City.

On Sundays throughout November 19, the Oakland Mills Village Center in Columbia will be hosting a market at 5851 Robert Oliver Place.

"We always want people to support local Howard County businesses, and that extends to farms too," said Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO Lawrence Twele. "The buy-local movement is exploding right now. These markets are a great way to showcase the talent of our farmers and to build a sense of community among Howard County residents."

More information can be found about the farmers markets at www.hceda.org/markets.