The Greene County farmers market 2020 season will not open in June. Tuesday evening in-person markets will be postponed until alternative arrangements for the venue and sales methods are determined, market coordinator Chris Henning announced earlier this week.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship guidance for holding farmers markets during the COVID-19 pandemic sets procedures that can not easily be implemented at the local market, which is held on the east side of the courthouse.
Controlled entrances and exits, a strictly transactional market (without lingering, group shopping, children, dogs, a meal or seating), a prohibition of non-food items, restroom and sanitation requirements, and point-and-purchase without personally handling items during selection, are all part of the current IDALS guidance.
“Since all of these things are very important to prevent the spread of the virus, and most are not available at our courthouse venue, which is not currently open to the public the market start date will be delayed indefinitely,” Henning said.
“We’re hoping for better news before sweet corn time, but it’s certainly hard to predict,” she added.
The farmers market will provide weekly updates on Tuesdays, starting June 2. Watch local media and the Greene County farmers market Facebook page for status updates.
Vendors who have produce, plants and food, are welcome and encouraged to sell them via the Facebook page at facebook.com/greenecountyfarmersmarket, or through their own online platform. Several vendors have items available now, with more production coming in July and August.
More information will be posted once online sales and delivery logistics are ready to use.
Persons who want more information about participating in the 2020 farmers market can send a message via the Facebook page, email GCFarmersMarket.37@gmail.com, or text message 515-370-2436.
