Pinedale Farmers Market opens May 31 with new location, events
by Maggie Palmer
May 27, 2009
The Pinedale Farmers Market (PFM) opens its 2009 season Sunday, May 31 in Downtown Pinedale. The Market operates every Sunday, rain or shine, from May 31 through October 11, 11 am to 2 pm, and is located on North Tyler Avenue between Rock Rabbit and the Visitor’s Center. Parking and public restrooms are readily available.
"We will have a good selection of vendors at the first market of the season with the number growing as the season progresses," said Maggie Palmer, the new farmers market manager. "Customers can expect to find farm fresh produce, eggs, baked goods, plants, and crafts of all shapes, sizes, and price ranges—and enjoy live music from area musicians while they wander." Farmer Don of Idaho’s Volcanic Farms will be bringing corn from his farm in California, and anticipates cherries and peas also. Wyomatoes will have tomatoes and a new crop of English Cucumbers.
Previously held in front of the Wind River Pizzeria, the new location on North Tyler comes with much thanks to the Town Council who approved the street closure earlier this year. Along with the new pedestrian crossing lights, the Market’s organizers are looking forward to increased visibility and access.
Not that the location is the only change for 2009 – the Market will also feature free crafts and activities for children, coordinated by the Green River Valley Land Trust (GRVLT) and hosted by different local organizations and businesses. "It will be a community event with activities for every family member," said Pat Poletti, who also helps run the Market. The PFM encourages any group that is interested in hosting an activity to contact them. Katy Teson, PFM Board Member and one of GRVLT’s coordinators added, "Activities are already planned and organized, but we would love to have different groups get involved and actually implement the activities in the children’s area each week."
Community members interested in selling their wares at the Pinedale Farmers Market are also in luck in 2009. There are no fees required and new regulations concerning the production of some foods in the home have become more relaxed due to amendments to the Wyoming Food, Drug, & Cosmetic Safety Act, which come into effect starting July 1.
Examples of foods that are now allowed to be made in the home for sale include, but are not limited to, baked breads, cookies, muffins, double crusted pies, dried cake and seasoning mixes, and jams and jellies that are not low sugar or made with artificial sweeteners. Foods that are still not allowed to be provided by home production include salsas, relishes, salad dressings, home canned foods, cream pies and pastries, flavored oils, meat/poultry, and dairy products.
The Pinedale Farmers Market was started in 2007 and seeks to provide a location for local farmers, ranchers and craftspeople to bring their products to market and provide an event for the community that fosters social gathering and interaction. Run by a volunteer Board of Directors, the Market is a Community Supported Market (CSM) supported by individual memberships that start at $10. Visit the Pinedale Farmers Market website for more details on how you, your family, business, or group can become a member and learn about the benefits of membership.
For further information about the Pinedale Farmers Market, including how to become a vendor a member, please contact pinedalefarmersmarket@wyoming.com and visit the new Market website at www.pinedalefarmersmarket.org.
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