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“I’m not sure what’s driving consumers to think they can’t buy direct anymore,” says Karen Goad, farm direct marketing specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Grande Prairie. “Perhaps it’s the change that brought B.C. regulations in line with Alberta’s. This change means that now all meat, poultry and related products sold in both Alberta and B.C. must be processed in an inspected facility. While this was always the case in Alberta, it’s a new requirement for B.C.”
Farmers have several options to sell the food products that they grow direct to consumers: Alberta Approved Farmers’ Markets, pick-your-own operations, farm gate sales and on-farm retail shops, to name just a few.
“Fresh, quality, locally grown foods can be found in abundance at a local farmers’ market,” says Goad. “In her blue coveralls, sporting a hoe and basket of fresh produce, Sunny Girl™ tells you you’ve found one of the over 85 Alberta Approved Farmers’ Markets where community-based entrepreneurs can sell the products they make, bake, or grow. Bring cash, a shopping bag and your curiosity. Ask about what’s in season and how it’s grown. Growers love what they do and are always eager to share stories from the garden or farm.
“While you’re filling your grocery basket, look for unique items from a variety of producers who make crafts, woodwork, pottery, jewellery and art. At Alberta Approved Farmers’ Markets, 80 per cent of the vendors make, bake or grow in Alberta.”
Many urban farmers’ markets are open year-round and most seasonal markets are now open for the summer. A list of Alberta farmers’ markets is available online at www.albertamarkets.com and www.sunnygirl.ca.
Consumers who would rather buy direct at the farm gate have lots to choose from. The Alberta Farm Fresh Producers Association (Farm Fresh) has over 160 members listed in their annual printed Come To Our Farms guide. The association also posts the information on their website . Either format provides information needed to locate farm-fresh, flavourful, Alberta grown berries and fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, honey, herbs and specialty items. The guide includes a comprehensive map listing association members, their phone numbers, directions to their farms and what they sell. Call 1-800-661-2462 for a free copy of Come To Our Farms.
“Buying farm direct is fertile ground to cultivate relationships with the people who grow your food,” says Goad. “Many operators offer heritage and specialized varieties of fruits, vegetables and meats that don’t routinely make it onto grocery shelves.”
Whether you shop at a farmers’ market or go right to the farm gate make it a family experience. You’re never too young to learn where food comes from. Many farm direct operators welcome kids to their farm with play areas and site tours. Dogs are not allowed at Alberta Approved Farmers’ Markets.
“Enjoy the trip to your favourite farm direct venue this summer,” adds Goad. “Take in the sights, smell the flowers and taste the fresh produce. Put a cooler and ice packs in your car to keep your fresh picks cool for the trip home. Experience Alberta’s best products direct from the people who grow them.”
Contact: Karen Goad 780-538-5629
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