Marshfield Farmers' Market

While we've certainly had plenty of sunny beach days this summer, our lack of rainy days has clearly taken a toll. It's no news that we've been experiencing the worst drought in over a decade for the past several months, with over 140 communities in Massachusetts alone imposing water restrictions. It's unfortunate to see our lawns turn brown and wither, but the consequences of our decaying yards are much less severe for me than those who need to grow food. So I decided to ask our local farmers how they have been holding up this summer, and was quite glad to hear that they have been able to make it through the summer without major problems.

Scott of Norwell Farms said he has been fortunate to have water on both the land he farms on in both Norwell and in Marshfield. Both of these properties have wells that have lasted the duration of the summer, so despite some crops coming in sooner than normal and not delivering a second cut, getting enough water for the crops hasn't been a problem- yet. Scott says that of course due to the lack of rain he has been spending more time watering, but not enough to where it's causing major problems.

Cretinon's Farmstand from Kingston relies heavily on their wells as well, though the yield has been a bit more concerning this season. David, owner of Cretinon's, tells me that peppers have been shriveling on the vine, apples are coming in smaller than expected, and he thinks it will be worse for later crops in the Autumn months. Though Cretinon's does have a pond and two wells deep enough to supply their land with water, David says simply to have the water available isn't enough. Moving hoses around the fields is a very labor intensive process that takes a lot of time, which is as we all know is a resource one can't replenish.

Others, such as Riverstreet Gardens in Halifax, have devised other ways to beat the drought in addition to having well water from a stable aquifer. Last year they decided to install a drip irrigation in their micro-farm, not knowing how handy it would be this year. Though it took many hours to install, creating this system allows for one to not have to spend eight hours hosing crops, and it is much more effective in getting the water to the roots of the plants than by hose.

I was happy to know that our farmers have not been suffering too much throughout this drought, despite the increased hours spent draining well water. But this issue does have us all wondering what the future holds. With every month being the hottest on record to date, we could definitely use a little cooling off.

The market is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Fridays at the Marshfield Fairgrounds, 140 Main St. Enter from Route 3A or south River Street across from the fire station. Parking and admission are free. The market offers a text reminder the day of the market each week. Sign up by texting the code mar248 to 781-676-3236. For more information, visit MarshfieldFarmersMarket.com. It includes a map of the market, all vendors, products and much more or call the manager, Stephen, at 781-248-8501.