Jan. 10 — Borrowing ideas from other communities nourishes FARM program

Pierce County politicians, restaurant owners and farmers are looking for guidance.

The recently created Pierce County FARM Program serves as a good framework to help local farmers connect with the surrounding community, but there is still more to do. A wish list — developed by farmers and FARM –– has pinpointed a focus for the program in the near-term: It will work with farmers to make their crops more marketable, and offer courses to make the market more viable for those same farmers.

The program will, for example, concentrate on regional farmers’ markets, such as the one in downtown Puyallup. Farmers’ markets represent an opportunity to put consumers in direct contact with the people who grow their food. And if done correctly, it could become the primary spot for East Pierce residents to go for fruit or vegetables.

But right now, the Puyallup Farmers’ Market is a seasonal attraction, not a place to shop regularly.

To help change that perception, a group of politicians, restaurant owners and farmers — all members of the farm bureau — traveled to Oregon for a look at one of the leading farmers’ market networks in action.

They report that Oregon residents look at the markets as a primary shopping destination, and that the venues allow farmers to work in conjunction with grocery stores and restaurants. Shopping at a farmers’ market wasn’t something that was a touristy thing to on the weekends. Crafts were few and far between and while there was musical entertainment, it didn’t overpower the reason for the market — giving local farmers the chance to sell their produce.

Most importantly, they report seeing farmers who feel as if they serve a valued purpose in the community.

Modeling the best practices of other communities can strengthen the future of farming and the FARM program in Pierce County. As the county continues to mold the FARM program, it should key in on building a comfortable bridge between farmers and their neighbors.

Elevating our farmers’ markets to a place on the weekly shopping list sounds like a good start. Not only would it improve the success of local farmers, it would also benefit residents and restaurants taking advantage of fresh produce grown in their community.