Farmers' Markets bring the farm to your neighborhood

On Sunday morning I awoke to the sound of kids laughing and a dogs barking outside of my window.  I stepped out on my front porch and saw a large gathering of people across the street in what I soon realized was the King Neighborhood Portland Farmer’s Market, which had just opened for the season.  I literally gasped with excitement at the thought of having my very own farmer’s market within a block of my house!  I headed over to check it out and found the usual organic, local produce fresh from the farm, as well as some offerings that were not so expected such as local wines, meats, cheeses, jams, artisan breads, vegan pastries, pies, homemade tamales, soaps, candles and music from a live bluegrass band. 

 

There is something truly refreshing about simplifying the steps between farmers, farmland, food and your table.  The sounds, smells and people bustling around open air markets brought me back to the colorful street markets I’ve visited in Central America and Mexico and made me reflect on our cultural heritage, as central outdoor places of commerce were the original method of selling agricultural products.  While walking home with bags full of fresh food, inspired by my experience, I decided to set a goal of making weekly trips to the farmer’s market to buy the basics and visit the supermarket only to supplement with necessities as they arise. 

 

The benefits of farmers’ markets extend beyond fresher, healthier food.  The food is often grown locally meaning that it travels less vehicle miles between the farm and you, therefore contributing less greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the atmosphere.  The food is also often grown organically, without the use of pesticides that endanger our bodies and our ecosystems.  By supporting farmers’ markets you are helping to sustain valuable farmland and organic farms, which provide critical habitat for wildlife, clean water and soil preservation.

 

 Portland State University Farmer's Market.

 

The availability of farmers’ markets has grown dramatically over the past ten years.  Nationally the number has grown from 2,746 in 1998 to 4,685 in 2008.  There are nearly 20 farmers’ markets in Portland alone, as well as dozens of markets within the greater Portland Metro area.  To find the farmer’s market nearest you, check out the Oregon Farmers’ Markets Association website.  If you can’t find an option near you, consider signing up for a weekly or monthly produce delivery service such as Organics to you.