Manitobans are invited to take home and enjoy farm-fresh produce, new local food products and many other items from one of the dozens of farmers’ markets opening across the province. This announcement was made by Premier Greg Selinger at the grand opening of the 25th season of Le Marché St. Norbert Farmers’ Market.
“The number of farmers’ markets continues to grow and shows clearly that Manitobans are seeking out opportunities to reconnect with the people who grow our food,” said Selinger. “Going to a farmers’ market helps us to better understand the province’s bountiful agriculture sector and connects us with the people who continue to take pride in creating unique, locally made items.”
The premier noted the market will begin the first phase of a $600,000 site-improvement project this year thanks to funding from all levels of government and community partners supporting facilities such as:
- a new community park east of the market,
- environmentally responsible improvements to site drainage,
- improvements and beautification of site entrances,
- a new demonstration orchard,
- better seating areas for all visitors, and
- better pathways within the market and to adjacent properties.
“We’re proud to be celebrating our 25th anniversary and thrilled that the support we’ve received means we’ll be able to offer a more enjoyable place for people to gather with friends and family, with better opportunities to support their local producers,” said Ken Kornelson, president of the market’s board of directors.
Since it opened in 1988, the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market has grown to 115 from eight vendors. On busy Saturdays, nearly 10,000 people now visit the market during its five-month season. All vendors must make, bake or grow their product.
“I would like to congratulate all of the organizers, vendors and community leaders who have helped the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market grow to be the success story it is today,” said Selinger. “Celebrating the 25th anniversary as a trusted source of local products is a special milestone for the community and for our province.”
There are over 130 farmers’ markets, pre-picked market stands, U-pick vegetable gardens and community-supported agriculture sites in the province. Manitobans are invited to find the ones closest to home with the updated 2013 Local Produce Guide, which includes helpful maps and detailed directions as well as the dates and times that each site will be open throughout the growing season. For a copy, follow the link to the guide at www.manitoba.ca/agriculture or pick one up at any Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives GO office, Travel Manitoba’s tourism information centres or the Destination Winnipeg office.
The premier also announced the fourth annual Open Farm Day will take place on Sunday, Sept. 15. Since it began, the number of host farms opening their gates to Manitobans has continued to increase. There are 64 participating farms this year and 34 of them are first-time sites. Last year, 51 farms across the province welcomed over 4,600 visitors. For more information about Open Farm Day, visit www.openfarmday.ca.
