By: Chelsea Zahler
STAFF WRITER
The last time you drove by the village green where Park Street and Main Street meet, perhaps you were on your way home for October break or simply out on your weekly Wal-Mart run. Perhaps you drove by when nothing was there but the large fountain, surrounded by the fallen leaves. But if you were to take another drive on a Tuesday or Friday, the village green would be completely transformed, filled with people, produce and a real sense of community.
This transformation of the village green is referring to the Canton farmers’ market. Local farmers have been given this platform of the village green to present their baked goods, produce, and maple products. The unique opportunity to display their goods in such a particularly busy section of Canton allows the farmers to not only bring attention to their small, local farms, but also to make quite a bit of cash if they appear at the market for the entire season of May 9th to October 31st.
The market has also proven to be very beneficial for the local consumers in addition. The farmers’ market provides consumers the opportunity to eat organic, healthy produce for fairly reasonable prices. It also allows for consumers to support local farms within the North Country and avoid filtering their money into large, corporate chains. Even for disadvantaged families with a limited income, the farmers’ market is still a viable option. As of recently, food stamps are now accepted as a form of payment. For all extents and purposes, the local market seems to be a win-win situation and a real asset for all North Country residents.
David Rice, local farmer at Sweet Core Farm, has had a stand at the farmers’ market for the past ten years. Of the past decade, he says that this year has been the best all around, for both his personal profit and the quality of the produce in general. So for those of you who have yet to visit, this is the year to make it a priority. After my own personal visit, I highly recommend that everyone take the trip at least once. All of the stand-owners are incredibly personable, the produce is guaranteed to be fresh, and the sense of fellowship and community amongst the fellow marketers is rather heartwarming. However, time is off the essence, my fellow Laurentians, as the market closes for the season on Halloween.
Some students, I’m sure, are struggling to see what use they personally may have for the farmers’ market, considering Dana has an organic section and we rarely cook on our own. However, there are many products offered there that could be used for some fun, seasonal activities for both group and individual settings. If you’re looking for pumpkins to carve before Halloween, you can purchase them in a variety of sizes. The market also has a variety of berries if you’re looking to try you’re in the mood for pie. Other available produce and products at the market include (but most certainly aren’t limited to): apples, potatoes, beans, cucumbers, honey, homemade doughnuts and maple syrup. Regardless of personal preference, there’s something at the market for absolutely everybody and the sixty-second drive is more than worth it.