Fresh Finds and Friendly Faces

Spring is the season of renewal and growth, bringing with it another bountiful season of farm-fresh produce. When you buy locally sourced produce, you're not only enjoying food that is picked at its peak of freshness, but you're also supporting members of your own community. By shopping locally and encouraging others to do the same, we strengthen our local economy, promote sustainability, and foster stronger community connections.

Did you know that locally sourced produce is often harvested within 24 hours of being sold? This means the fruits and vegetables you purchase at the market offer superior flavor and texture and can contain up to 40% more nutrients compared to commercially shipped produce that may travel over 1,500 miles to reach you. Additionally, eating produce in season ensures peak freshness and can help you save money.

Choosing local also reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation and minimizes waste from packaging materials used for shipping and retail. Furthermore, sustainable farming practices employed by local farmers promote healthier soil, reduce chemical runoff, and contribute to a more environmentally friendly food system.

Shopping regularly at the farmers market can also enhance your physical health by providing access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods that may lower the risk of chronic diet-related diseases. Whether you're seeking fruits and vegetables, locally sourced meats and dairy, or artisan foods and handmade goods, farmers markets offer a diverse array of benefits for consumers.

Join us every Wednesday from May 27th through October 7th at the Watertown Farm & Craft Market, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This will be Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County’s first year hosting the market, and we’re excited for a fun and successful season ahead! 

To learn more about this year’s market visit www.watertownfarmandcraft.com and to learn more about programming opportunities with CCE Jefferson visit www.ccejefferson.org.