This year's tag line for the Downtown Farmers Market is simply stated, Buy Fresh! Buy Local! The growing popularity of local products is a true renaissance in the way we think, the way we shop, and the way we eat. Here in Utah, our connection to agriculture is proven in that much of our state remains rural. According to the USDA, Utah had 11.73 million acres in farm or ranch production in 2005. However, development is a constant threat to agriculture. Many an orchard has been sold at lucrative prices only to be parceled out for residential and commercial developments.
The growth of farmers markets across the state has worked in marvelous ways to change the business model for the family farm. When a farmer is able to sell directly to the consumer, the middle man is taken out of the picture and the profit margin is able to sustain the business. Farmers at the Downtown Farmers Market have reported that direct sales opportunities have completely changed their business/ For our larger growers, the Saturday Market can account for 1/3 of the annual business. Growing techniques are also changed as growing for market promotes crop diversity and organic practices. After all, our growers are conversing directly to their customers and listening to their request. When growing for markets, the produce list is long in variey instead of the one-crop model that works for supermarkets.
People flock to the Farmers Market for a variety of reasons: fresh-picked produce, more variety, organics, heirlooms, to support local, and so on. Anyway you look at it, shopping at a farmers market is a unique experience. When was the last time that you stopped in your supermarket to talk with a fellow shopper about the incredible color of an Arkansas Traveler tomato? It just doesn't happen as we walk through the brightly-lit aisles, crossing things off of our list. The Farmers Market brings out a human experience that connects shoppers to a community. That community includes farmers, neighbors, foodies, and families. We do not walk the aisles of a farmers market isolated, rather we stroll, we browse, and we share a common thread that is food, good wholesome food.
As we head into our 16th year in Pioneer Park, we are proud to be Localvores and gracious to our many, many supporters.
