The launch of the annual farmers’ market season is a perfect opportunity for consumers to shop for locally produced foods and discover the real great taste of Manitoba. This statement was made today by Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Stan as the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market opened.
“Farmers markets have a long tradition in Manitoba and provide the perfect opportunity for consumers to buy locally produced foods and crafts, while at the same time giving consumers the chance to meet the people that grow the foods they eat,” said Struthers. “This year, I extend a challenge to Manitobans to try to buy local when you can. This year’s growing season has gotten off to a rocky start with flood waters threatening many crops; by buying local we can support those producers.”
The new 2011 Local Produce Guide that provides detailed information on the locations and dates of farmers’ markets and pre-picked market stands, U-pick vegetable gardens and community supported agriculture around the province was released today. The guide is available at all Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) GO offices, Travel Manitoba’s tourism information centres and the Destination Winnipeg office.
Struthers noted that today also marks the launch of the Farmers’ Market GPS Challenge. Running June 4 to Aug. 27, the challenge will focus on visiting participating farmers’ markets in Winnipeg and in the Eastman, Interlake and central regions by using GPS co-ordinates, with a chance to win prizes and buy fresh produce.
He further noted the second annual Open Farm Day has been scheduled this year for Sept. 18. Open Farm Day is an opportunity for farmers to tell their stories, sell their products and invite visitors to share in what farming is all about, Struthers said. A new brochure is now available complete, with a map indicating the locations of the farms participating in this year’s event. The brochure is available at all MAFRI GO offices and online at www.openfarmday.ca.
“Our farm families are proud of their farms and their contribution to Manitoba’s innovative farming practices and our provincial economy is truly noteworthy,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Jennifer Howard, who attended the opening of the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market today. “To help more people experience and understand the business of farming and its importance and contribution to Manitoba, I encourage everyone to consider taking part in this year’s Open Farm Day, where 44 farm families will offer the public a chance to visit a farm.”
Struthers also acknowledged four new organizations providing support in the promotion of Open Farm Day: Keystone Agricultural Producers, the Manitoba Regional Tourism Network, Manitoba Rural Tourism Association and Eastman Tourism Association.
