Complimentary cookies, coffee and water
The Greene County farmers market will celebrate its 20th anniversary Tuesday, Sept. 24, from 4 to 6:30 pm during the final market of the season. The public is invited to enjoy complimentary cookies, coffee, and water, while stocking up on fall produce, jams, jellies, honey, baked goods, meat, eggs, and crafts. This is also the last chance to use any remaining Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons you might have.
The farmers market began in August 1999 as part of the Jefferson Chamber’s Summer on the Square and was initially held only during the month of August. Throughout the last two decades, the market expanded to June through September and moved to Tuesday evenings. A Saturday market was tried with limited success. It is currently located on the east side of the courthouse.
Every year brings different vendors showcasing locally grown produce, baked goods, and crafts. Current market manager Chris Henning notes that Deal’s Orchard and Lost Grove Produce, owned by the Bloomquist family of Gowrie, have been the market’s most loyal and long-term vendors.
Some years have seen vendors than others. At one point there were more than 20 vendors at the market, but it’s typically around 10 vendors. Vendors pay a fee to sell at the market. These fees pay for advertising, training, and daily management of the market during the 17-week season. A special “youth entrepreneur” rate is available for groups and individual vendors who are between 12 to 18, or otherwise qualified, where the marketing and production is handled by the youth themselves. Most markets include a meal served by local organizations that can be a great fundraising opportunity.
“We love our vendors and they love our market citing such amenities as shade, a beautiful area to set up their stands, great entertainment, and camaraderie. But most importantly they love the citizens of Greene county and surrounding areas who support their small local businesses. They look forward to chatting with customers new and old and are proud of what they produce,” Henning said.
To continue the success of the Greene county farmers market will take the community’s continued support. The market has been fortunate to have four volunteer market managers, Kathy Walker, Candy Hoyle, Alexis Hooper, and Chris Henning, as well as two interns, Jack Shilling and Haley Liem. Market organizers are now searching for a new market manager. This can be a paid or volunteer position and will include training and certification. Interested persons should contact Chris Henning at 515-370-2436 or GCFarmersMarket.37@gmail.com.
