LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk | Farms & Markets The Adirondack Reader A Celebration of Adirondack Farmers' Markets HOSS'S C OU N T RY C OR N E R LOGO WEAR - THORLO Text and Photo's By Laurie Davis ~ Specializing in Adirondack books, & maps ~ 156 Main Street Inlet, NY 315-357-2665 ~ Summer: Open Daily 10am - 6pm Fall: Sat. & Sun. 10am - 4pm Gifts, Art and More E MAPLE BOO OS KS O M & More New & Used Books ~ Rustic Furniture ~ Adirondack Gifts We're Open Tuesday - Satruday 10:30am - 5pm Welcome to Our New Store! 169 Olive St Saranac Lake, NY 12893 518-891-9694 The United States Department of Agriculture has been keeping tabs on the number of farmers markets in our country since 1994 when it registered a baseline of 1,755 markets. The market concept ignited and in August of 2012 the tally had reached 7,864. That's a 350% increase in less than twenty years and an average increase of 18% every two years. While certainly impressive, it's not surprising. Each year, several towns in the Adirondacks are either launching new markets or are scheming to start one soon. Why are we embracing farmers' markets so enthusiastically? First and foremost they are an ideal place to purchase local food, and the quest for local food has closely tracked the climbing farmers' market trend. Locally grown food is fresh and exploding with perfectly ripe flavor. Fruits and vegetables are grown for great taste, not durable shipping traits. The local farmer often grows succulent heirloom varieties which not only expand the palate, but also help to preserve agricultural genetic diversity. Produce that's fresh and vine-ripened can be healthier, packed with nutrients at their peak of accessibility. "If you can't find it at 40-yearold Hoss's, you probably don't need it!" Martha Stewart "Bibliophiles and anyone interested in the Adirondacks will be fascinated by the Authors Night evenings." Leatherstocking Magazine Adirondack Author's Night! Under the Big Top at Hoss's Country Corner, August 13, 2013 7-9pm Our 29th Year! 1142 Main Street Long Lake, NY 12847 800-952-HOSS HosssCountryCorner.com SLIDERS - ICE CREAM - COFFEE - MAPLE SYRUP - WILD GAME MEATS R arely does one come across a concept that is truly "win-win" for all who are impacted. Farmers' markets fit the bill.They benefit not only the farmers, but consumers and their communities. Over the years, I have been a farmer, vendor and a customer at many markets. I have also helped to organize farmers markets and have served on the board of a market cooperative. From all perspectives I see reasons to celebrate this exceptional [sales venue]. BAIT SHOP - RODS - REELS - CAMPING GEAR - GLUTEN-FREE FOODS Bookstore Extraordinaire! GIFTS - BREADS - CHEESES Most market rules require at least two produce vendors at a site to be qualified as a farmers' market. Those vendors, along with other local food producers usually make up the majority of the booths. Don't forget that local food goes beyond fruits and vegetables; in the Adirondacks we are increasing small-scale production of cheese, eggs, herbs, honey, wine, maple and meats including beef, pork, poultry, lamb, goat (chevon), bison and rabbit. Further, one can usually find baked goods (often made with local ingredients), bedding plants and a wide variety of crafts: pottery, turned wood, jewelry, baskets, etc. A farmers' market is a terrific place for fledgling farmers to jump into direct sales. Most markets are convenient and accessible with a great customer base already looking for local products. The atmosphere of social interaction and self-promotion helps to kick start other areas of farm sales, such as CSAs, roadside stands or stores. For the cashstrapped farmer, the price is right – most markets have very reasonable stall rates, and the return is optimal with sales profits headed straight for the farmers' pockets. Beyond that, many farmers find the markets to have an enjoyable atmosphere where customers understand the benefits of supporting local agriculture. Farmers' markets are great community builders. A weekly visit can be a fun and productive social outing for the whole family, a chance to visit with friends and neighbors while shopping for some of the best food around. The chit chat is not limited to customers; at most markets the photo ©Michele Buck SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES earthrootslandscaping.com Lake Placid, NY 518.946.7759 LOCALadk Magazine Summer 2013 51

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