• Introduction
  

• Winnipeg Farmers Markets
  

• References
  

WELCOME

Introduction and Background

Today there is a tremendous sense of disconnection between where our food is produced and where it is purchased with goods in North America traveling on average 2000 km between production and processing and eventual purchase from supermarkets and grocery retailers (Brown, 2002). Farmers’ Markets are about more than the sale of agricultural commodities. They are about community, food, friends, and an enhanced sense of sharing. They are about a time gone by when people would actually know where their food came from and more importantly, care. These mall-scale markets reflect local character in a way that no collection of chain stores can do. Modern supermarkets do little to support a sense of community, rather allowing people to wander in private isolation. In contrast, farmers’ markets are the epitome of socialization, and of support for local area producers and for a way of life that recognizes the many social, political, and economic facets of the food system. Some argue the Farmers’ Market is more important today in our towns and cities than perhaps at any other time in history. Markets can foster the personality of a place and they nurture the kind of redevelopment needed to repair years of city neglect and decay resulting from sprawl.

Definitions of farmers’ markets are as varied as the places in which they are established. The emphasis is on public markets that primarily feature farm-fresh produce plus non-food items. Individuality and local personality distinguish each market from the other. Farmers’ markets are the most basic and pure form of market and most exist in an open-air setting. Simple market sheds may provide escape from the elements, and provide a use for other events besides a market, truly they can become foci for area redevelopment and community events. Thus public markets can play a far larger role than simply providing fresh produce and local goods. Markets can stimulate interaction, foster new local businesses, and stabilize downtown districts or small commercial neighbourhoods. Their benefits extend from rural acreages, through to the dynamic beat of the inner city.

The number of farmers’ markets across North America is up over 50% in the last ten years with no sign of slowing down (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2002). Part of the success that has been enjoyed by farmers’ markets is due in part to an increased demand for high quality, organically grown produce. Farmers’ markets provide a direct link between the farm and the community and the freshness and quality of goods is unrivalled among larger retailers. Markets are changing the way people eat, and since local farmers are better equipped to meet the growing demand for organically produced goods a symbiotic relationship between growers and consumers is rapidly expanding the market base for small area farmers.

Promiting Farmers markets: Source: US Department of Agriculture

Source: www.gatheringtogetherfarm.com/

Source: www.spiritofvincennes.org/

Source: www.hort.wisc.edu/