May 29th, 2009
By Barbara Kessler
Green Right Now
We chat a lot about farmer’s markets here on the website, but it’s a pet topic for some good reasons. Who can argue with buying local food, which carries a lower carbon footprint, is often more nutrient-rich (according to recent studies) than less fresh options and also supports the local economy?
Here’s a new twist on the concept that we stumbled upon – a farmer’s market that comes to your workplace. They started one in Chester County, Pa., last year and are bringing it back this summer.
The impromptu, lunchtime markets provide both gastronomic and economic benefits. Farmers get a new outlet for their goods and the county employees are treated to fresh produce, allowing them to skip the daily chore of stopping at the grocery on the way home.
The arrangement also pleases the county HR folks, who can sneak in a punt for good nutritional habits.
“One of the goals of our County Wellness Program is to provide opportunities for our employees to eat more fruit and vegetables,” said Terence Farrell, Chester County Commissioner Chair.
And there will be plenty a veggies at the weekly grower’s markets, which also will offer seasonal fruits, free-range chickens, eggs, cheeses, honey and whole grain breads. The food comes from the Westtown-based Stratton-Wynnorr farm, in conjunction with eight Amish families and other local farmers.
For those of you outside of Chester County, which is west of Philadelphia, let our story Getting the Most From Your Farmer’s Market inspire you to find your own nearby produce outlet.
(Four locations will host the Chester markets: the historic Chester County Courthouse on High Street in West Chester; the Government Services Center on Westtown Road in West Chester; the Exton Library rear parking lot; and the open-air pavilion at Pocopson Home on Route 52. Each Thursday during June, July and August, the market will be based at one of these four locations, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)
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