Overview of MCFARM
From CFI
2008 Farmers' Market Season- Where Consumers Meet Producers
As May approaches and our local farmers are gearing up for the new Farmers' Market season, so too are the MCFARM Market Managers. The Mendocino County Farmers Market Association, MCFARM, was established in 1977 with the first county farmers market in Ukiah. Local farmers needed an outlet for their produce and consumers flocked for the fresh bounty of the crops. It turned out to be one of the most efficient outlets for local producers to sell directly to the consumer.
MCFARM boasts nine markets throughout Mendocino County, each with it’s own unique ambience and flavor. Markets are located in Boonville, Fort Bragg, Gualala, Laytonville, Mendocino, Redwood Valley, Willits and two in Ukiah.
There are approximately 200 members/ vendors of the Farmers Market Association. Each vendor complies with the “Certified” status of the organization by being certified themselves through the Mendocino County Dept of Agriculture. This certified status proves to the consumer that the person selling the produce has actually grown it. Some vendors are “Certified Organic” meaning they adhere to organic agricultural practices. Most vendors are not “certified organic”, but most grow without the use of pesticides and herbicides because it is the best thing for the land, environment and human health. The markets also comply with Mendocino County Environmental Health standards and are inspected regularly to maintain safe food handling practices, to decrease the possibility of food contamination.
The large flourishing Fort Bragg market moved to a new location last year on the corner of N. Main and W. Spruce St. It has turned out to be a prime spot to hold a festive event such as the Farmers Market. Customers can sit and enjoy food and beverages from the food court accompanied by live music. A wide of variety of foods from fruits and vegetables to goat cheeses, meats, honey and fruit sorbet. Plants, trees and flowers for Spring planting are also available. Opening day is Wed. May 7th from 3:30 to 6 PM.
The Mendocino Market is one of the most picturesque markets in the nation with a commanding view of Mendocino Bay. You will find 2 excellent goat cheese vendors, gorgeous flower bouquets, a spectacular variety of produce, both from inland and coastal farms and delectable baked goods from a local Mendocino Bakery. The atmosphere is uniquely “Mendocino”- laid back, friendly and fun. Opening market day is Friday May 2, 12:00-2:00.
This year MCFARM was awarded a USDA grant for market enhancement activities, such as new signs, a “Friends of MCFARM” information booth, a spanish-speaking liason, chef demonstrations and a new program for purchasing “green bucks” as gifts or support for needy families. Local philanthropists are encouraged to sponsor a needy family or individual through this program.
Community support is abundant for Farmers Markets. Localization groups such as CELL, WELL and GULP have given MCFARM markets their blessing because the markets are the most efficient way of getting food to the consumer without the large carbon footprint that most food transportation and storage systems create. The food is nutrient rich and healthier because it is fresh, often picked that day. Local agriculture provides income for many families. Our locally produced food generally is safer because of little or no use of pesticides and herbicides...better for our environment, too. Many consumers enjoy being able to ask the farmers questions about where their food is coming from or how it is grown. Shoppers enjoy the sense of community that the Farmers Market provides.
For more information about the Mendocino County Farmers markets, see the website www.mcfarm.org or call the office 964-6718.
Article written by Angela Harney, MCFARM Office Manager April 3, 2008
