I agree, this farmers' market holds great history--known and unknown--though am unimpressed with the selection of produce, particularly produce grown locally (traditionally considered under 100 miles). As of yet, I've only talked to 2-3 produce vendors who fit within this local circumference. The other farms present, though enthusiastic, are from far south as South Carolina. Many vendors are actually middle men sellers of produce that isn't indigenous to the area. (I've actually seen avocados sold there in the winter!).
This market has great potential and I would love to see it focus more on locally grown produce, reach out to the low-income populations of Old Town and greater Alexandria (maybe they could accept Food Stamps-SNAP, WIC and/or Senior Farmers MarketNutrition Program). There are many resources to support this shift within the area and it should be the City's responsibility to progress this market towards this change.
Comment
I agree, this farmers' market holds great history--known and unknown--though am unimpressed with the selection of produce, particularly produce grown locally (traditionally considered under 100 miles). As of yet, I've only talked to 2-3 produce vendors who fit within this local circumference. The other farms present, though enthusiastic, are from far south as South Carolina. Many vendors are actually middle men sellers of produce that isn't indigenous to the area. (I've actually seen avocados sold there in the winter!). This market has great potential and I would love to see it focus more on locally grown produce, reach out to the low-income populations of Old Town and greater Alexandria (maybe they could accept Food Stamps-SNAP, WIC and/or Senior Farmers MarketNutrition Program). There are many resources to support this shift within the area and it should be the City's responsibility to progress this market towards this change.