My view: Farmers' markets add color to the local landscape

By Jerry Goodrich

August 2, 2011 at 10:53PM

Sun-ripened tomatoes and so much more

The corn crop struggled this cool spring and was barely knee-high by the 4th of July. But with the recent late-evening thunderstorms and warm temps, it's now shooting up and will be at least "as high as an elephant's eye" by the time this column appears.

Yes, the growing season is finally rushing toward its peak. So, for garden-fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers, and a welcome break from the pressures of the workweek, visit the farmers market of your choice soon.

All told, there are nearly 150 farmers markets in Minnesota, with about 50 in the Twin Cities area. Many of the best are right here in the south metro, and I embarked recently on a tour of them, to include those in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Farmington, Lakeville, Prior Lake and Savage.

All have ample parking, easy access to the vendors and many of the same products and spectacular produce. Some have notable differences: Vendors who are predominantly Hmong people from Laos (renowned for their green thumbs), hours on days other than Saturday, and one (Prior Lake) that is ideal for a leisurely outing by the entire family,

Set in the middle of downtown, with barricades erected to keep out motorized vehicles, the Prior Lake farmers market has a festive air. Moms, dads, kids, an endearing array of family pets, senior citizens, and cyclists walking their bikes provide a fascinating and constantly changing streetscape that also includes live music. In addition to produce, jams, nuts, bread, honey, etc., you will find arts and crafts, clothing, ice cream, a hot breakfast and even pizza. Plan to stay awhile.

Each farmers market has its own appeal, either through location or what is offered. Most are open through late fall, so there's still plenty of time to check them out. For locations in the south metro area and beyond, and other information you will need, log on to www.startribune.com/a584.

When you stop by your local farmers market, you may see someone biting into a luscious, red, sweet tomato just off the vine and warmed by the sun. That will be me -- behaving like I was a 10-year-old again, raiding my family's garden!

Jerry Goodrich is a Prior Lake resident.

about the writer

about the writer

Jerry Goodrich