FINLEY — This coming Saturday, October 27, 2018 will be a warm, lovely autumn day – perfect for the last farmers’ market of the season. It has been a difficult year for our community in general and our farmers in particular. The best way to show farmers how much you appreciate all their hard work is by stocking up on everything they have to offer! With the many artisanal, handmade, and other unique items, this market is also the best place to start your holiday shopping early.
The Saturday Morning Market is held at Steele Wines near Finley and is open from 8:30 a.m. to noon, May through October.
Many businesses and livelihoods have been affected by the fires and farmers’ market vendors were hit hard. Perishable products like cheese, fruits and vegetables rely on steady inputs and loyal customers. Many producers had to make the difficult decision to stay, risking their safety to protect livestock and plants, or evacuate knowing that their livelihoods would dry up or perhaps even burn. For the first time ever, markets had to be cancelled and afterwards attendance slowed down dramatically. To make matters worse many customers perpetually seem to be under the impression that the season ends when school starts.
One silver lining has been ‘Disaster CalFresh’. Recipients of this aid, as well as customers who receive regular benefits through SNAP (formerly called food stamps), receive bonus tokens to spend on fruits and vegetables at LCFF markets. This program has made a huge difference in farmers’ incomes and is instrumental in the healthy food choices recipients make at the market.
During the off-season some vendors may still have some products available for purchase by contacting them directly. For more information check out www.lakecountyfarmersfinest.org or call Cornelia at 707 263-6076 with any questions.
Both the Tuesday Morning Market at Library Park in Lakeport and the Saturday Morning Market at Steele Wines will start up again during the first week of May 2019.
