Editor’s note – The Greene County farmers market is in full swing. Last week, the Water Rocks!’ Conservation Station was at the market with information about soil and water conservation and more. Supper will return to the market this week with members of Central Christian Church serving beefburgers and hotdogs.
Patti Edwardson provides the following tips to get the most from the market.
~by Patti Edwardson for the Greene County farmers market
How often do you shop at a farmers’ market? Every week? Occasionally? Never? As most of us know by now, farmers markets are the places to go for fresh, locally-produced, seasonal foods. Whether you are a regular shopper or have never tried it, I would like to offer some tips on how to get the most from your farmers market shopping experience.
Put it on your calendar. Farmers markets generally operate once per week for only a few hours. Fortunately, here in west-central Iowa, markets can be found in the larger, and even some smaller, towns on different days. Mark them on your calendar so you don’t miss out.
Bring cash. Cash is most often used, but some vendors are able to accept other forms of payment such as debit/credit cards or checks. And, cash is more convenient for small purchases like that tempting $1 bag of popcorn.
Bring your kids, grandkids, grandparents, friends, and neighbors. Farmers markets are great community events, open to everyone, and free to attend. Kids may find a greater appreciation of the healthy foods you want them to eat when they meet the farmer who grew or raised it.
Bring your appetite. Oftentimes, like at the Greene County farmers market, a meal will be provided by a local organization and available for purchase.
Allow yourself some time. Oftentimes, you will find live music or other joint events for the community. Take the opportunity to catch up with friends and to meet new friends.
Have a strategy. Arrive at the beginning of the market for best selection. Browse all the vendor tables even if you don’t purchase from them. See what they have and talked to each vendor to learn about all they do to get their items to the market. Perhaps you will buy from him another time. If you know what you want and find it, snatch it up quickly before it is sold out.
Know what is in season. Early June growing conditions bring us garden vegetables that won’t be available in the heat of summer: tender greens, radishes, peas, and asparagus. Iowa State Extension has resources of when vegetables should be available and how to use those vegetables.
Be ready for surprises. An unexpected or unique product can add creativity to your meals. If you aren’t familiar with an item, ask the farmer for ideas on how to prepare and enjoy it. She may even have recipes available.
Shop for staples of the market. At most markets, you can find frozen meat, fresh eggs, honey, baked goods, and handmade craft items every week.
Buy all you need, but don’t overdo it. Remember that once you get all those fresh, perishable fruits and vegetables home, they will need to be stored properly to keep them fresh until you are ready to eat them. If you buy too much and have to throw some away, you may get discouraged from farmers’ market shopping.
Know there are rules. Market vendors are there to make a profit. Just like a store, there are specific hours the market is open. Vendors generally are not allowed to sell before the opening time to make it fair to all vendors. Vendors also set their prices based on production costs and other variables. Don’t ask for a reduced price unless the vendor offers one. Markets also must follow rules to keep everyone safe, including vendors offering samples and shoppers controlling their dogs.
Market places and times can be found in local media, or online at IDALS Farmers Market Directory. In Jefferson, you can visit the Greene County farmers market on the east side of the courthouse square every Tuesday from 4 to 6:30 pm from June 7 to Sept. 27. Shop locally, eat healthy, and build community!
