An early bounty for Oregon’s farmers’ markets, May 7

Most of the state’s farmers’ markets are now open & displaying early season food crops. A majority of the state’s farmers’ markets are now open and alive with activity. But for a second straight year, the growing season has accelerated for many local crops and some Oregonians may wonder if the early harvest and market offerings represent the new normal. “We are about three weeks early by most reports,” says Ginger Rapport, manager of the Beaverton Farmers’ Market. “Of course, we were thrilled to be eating locally grown strawberries in April, but the concern is whether there will be enough water for farmers to irrigate fields in August.” An early spring following a mild winter provides customers at approximately 150 Oregon farmers’ markets an opportunity in May to purchase food items they usually don’t see until June. Drought, primarily east of the Cascades, will be something to keep an eye on for markets in Central and Eastern Oregon along with those vendors who truck their crops over the mountains to west side markets. “With many crops, an early start does not mean more weeks of product,” says Rebecca Landis, manager of the Corvallis Farmers’ Market. “So market fans need to stay tuned into their favorite farmers’ markets’ web page and social media to ensure they don’t miss their favorite fruits and vegetables.” Early season offerings by Oregon farmers’ markets always include a variety of fresh greens, such as spinach, as well as winter root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. There are also non-food products such as flowers and bedding plants. This spring, in addition to strawberries, some of the early arrivals include cauliflower and kale. It won’t be long before other types of fresh berries and cherries show up in abundance. Likewise, many products coming on in late summer or fall may be available sooner than expected, including pears, watermelon, and fresh corn. One of the joys of shopping at a farmers’ market is that availability of product can change from week to week. The availability of seasonal crops may be different this year, but the essence of farmers’ markets remains the same. City folks continue flocking to markets in pursuit of locally grown produce and meat products as well as an experience not available in traditional retail groceries. Market managers and vendors see the gathering and exchange as a healthy way to bridge the urban and the rural. “Farmers’ markets are one of the few places where urban Oregonians can find themselves face to face with farmers. and vice versa,” says Landis. “When they meet in this setting, it underscores their mutual interdependence. Customers ask about produce varieties and production methods. Farmers learn what is important to their customers and have a chance to fit that knowledge in their business and production plans.” Interestingly, some of the growth in farmers’ markets has occurred in rural areas of Oregon.