Published: June 10, 2008 08:26 am      

Farmers' Markets: Sellers, buyers get boost while shopping locally

Here in upstate New York, the growing season is finally upon us.

Local farmers' markets are on the rise, as well. Fresh eggs, meadow-raised meats, produce, baked goods, flowers and hand-crafted items are just a few of the items available at the markets.

Having grown in popularity over the past decade, farmers' markets are a wonderful way to support and boost local economies.

Many rural communities, such as those here in upstate New York, benefit a great deal by promoting and supporting local markets.

Markets are a good way to bring the farmer/craftsman directly to the consumer _ establishing a relationship between vendor and consumer.

Locally, there are several markets in the surrounding area, including Oneonta, Cooperstown, Delhi, Franklin, Cherry Valley and the Round Barn in Halcottsville.

In addition to fresh food, flowers and hand-crafted items, the majority of markets feature live music, entertainment and special events throughout the season.

The Oneonta market, for example, will feature several celebrations such as Father's Day, Independence Day, Dairy Day and Kids Day, just to name a few, along with tastings, live music and community outreach programs, as well.

Muller Plaza, in downtown Oneonta, is the site of the Oneonta market, which operates every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the fall.

Stone and Thistle Farm and ARK Floral have participated in the Oneonta market for the past several years. Stone and Thistle Farm features meadow-raised meats (goat, lamb, beef, poultry), fresh eggs and dairy products, as well.

Available from ARK Floral are fresh-cut flowers, hanging baskets, bedding plants and sunflowers just to name a few.

Cooperstown plays host to one of the few indoor markets, located just off Main Street in Pioneer Alley, each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hours vary during the fall and holiday season.

Acrospire Farms, certified as being "naturally grown," can be found at the Cooperstown market, and it offers a diverse assortment of goods that coincide with the local growing season, such as rhubarb, lettuce, radishes and cucumbers to root vegetables later in the season.

According to Ken White, owner, some items, such as rhubarb, potatoes and onions, are available for sale in large quantities. Affiliated with Acrospire Farms is "Baked Goods by Kathleen," featuring home-baked items such as fresh pies (made from produce grown on the farm whenever possible) and breads.

At the Cooperstown market, anyone wishing to buy maple products can visit the Pumpkin Hollow Farm stand where an abundance of maple merchandise, such as maple syrup, cream, jelly, lollipops and popcorn, can be found, along with homemade craft items as well.

The villages of Delhi, Franklin, Cherry Valley and Halcottsville (Pakatakan) all host farmers' markets, as well.

In Delhi, the market runs every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Main Street, just across from the county courthouse. Many vendors are available at the Delhi market including the "Italian Cookie Home" specializing in homemade Italian fare, and the Hare and Feather Farm, selling everything from duck, chicken and fresh eggs to unique crafts.

The Franklin Farmers' Market is held every other Sunday, beginning Memorial Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Institute Street, across from the public school.

FOKISH Farms, featuring "fair-trade rainforest alliance" organic coffee, organic vegetables and homemade breads such as baguettes and Swedish breakfast rolls, is one of the 12 vendors available at the Franklin Market.

According to Ellen Curtis, director of the Franklin market, there will be live music just about each week the market is open, as well as blood pressure clinics along with other various special events.

Similar to the previously mentioned markets is the Pakatakan Farmers Market at the historic Round Barn in Halcottsville, open each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Round Barn is located five miles north of Arkville and Margaretville on state Route 30 and will have an abundance of goods to choose from.

In Cherry Valley, the farmers' market is located at "It's All Good" a local store at 11 Main St., from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every Friday. There one can find fresh vegetables and produce along with specialty items available from the store.

So grab your shopping bags, support your local farmers and economy and savor all of the fresh foods native to upstate New York.