FARM FRESH

BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES

Certiied farmers markets have taken of nationwide in nearly every town and are gaining in popularity. A “certiied” farmers market means that the people selling you their fruits, vegetables, honey and eggs are the actual farmers and their employees. According to the rules that govern certiied farmers markets, middlemen are not allowed to buy at central markets and resell to the public in these venues. This means that the lion’s share of the farmers at your local farmers market are local to you. Wherever you live, and in good times and bad, it’s always a good idea to get to know your local farmers.

Food is one of the cornerstones of physical survival. On an individual level, you should grow a garden, plant only useful ornamentals, learn about wild plants and get involved with a neighborhood garden, at which you can share with other growers. Knowing your local farmers is a wise idea. And the easiest way to get to know them is at your local farmers market.

WHAT IS A FARMERS MARKET?

First, let’s deal with some misconceptions about farmers markets.

These are conducted under the auspices of the Department of Agriculture (USDA), following guidelines that have evolved since farmers markets have become so popular. Individual states and many local governments have regulations and guidelines that must be followed. Someone with a truck and many boxes of tomatoes doesn’t just show up and tell the manager of the market that they are the farmer.

Any farmer who wants to participate in a certiied farmers market must irst contact the local agent with the Agriculture Department and request an inspection. They inspect your farm, backyard or leased land—wherever you are growing—and then issue a certiicate listing each item they have observed that you grow. If they don’t see it during the inspection because it’s not in season, you have to call them back. They can then do a physical inspection.