Every summer local supermarkets and produce markets are filled with locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Signs point out "Jersey Fresh" produce and encourage shoppers to support local farmers and buy New Jersey-grown products.

But what about the winter?

"Winter is a busy season for our local fishermen," said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari. "While most of us are trying to stay warm, our fishing fleets are prowling the freezing waters offshore working to bring the freshest seafood to our tables."

Vicari, liaison to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, said local fishermen deserve the same support consumers give to farmers.

"During the summer we prefer locally grown produce because we know it is the best," Vicari said. "The same can be said for our seafood. "Who wants to eat frozen fish farmed and caught halfway around the world when we can instead have fresh Atlantic seafood?"

Federal statistics show that more than 85% of the seafood consumed in the US is imported.

"Instead of supporting the often unregulated seafood industries overseas, we need to stand with our local fishermen and their families," Vicari said.

Vicari asked residents to ask "What do you have from New Jersey today?" when they visit the supermarket, fish market or restaurant.

During the winter months, clams, oysters, scallops, porgies, fluke, sea bass, skate, maybe tuna and swordfish, as well as frozen squid or canned clams and scungilli are readily available from local sources.

Vicari said this effort is part of his larger "Buy in Ocean County" campaign that encourages consumers to support local businesses.

Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little said the fishing industry has always been an important part of Ocean County's economy.

"Buy locally, eat locally," Little said. "You won't find better seafood anywhere."