Preparations underway for Pagosa Farmers Market

Photo courtesy Pauline Benetti
Corn grows in preparation for the Pagosa Farmers market. Many area growers are working to overcome the effect of the recent rain.

By Pauline Benetti

Special to The PREVIEW

The Pagosa Farmers Market opens in about four more weeks. In the meantime, local growers are working valiantly to overcome the effects of days of rain as they work to get seeds or starts in the ground — believe that or not.

Too much rain at the wrong time is not good, either. Those with produce (such as garlic) that went in last fall, on the other hand, are experiencing a serious spurt of growth as the plants soak up the welcomed moisture. Growing produce is not for the faint of heart, but the gratification when growth flourishes daily is its own reward.

Rewards are also reaped by the consumer of locally and regionally grown produce. Here are nine good reasons to shop at the Pagosa Farmers Market:

1. Shoppers will experience seasonal and regional favorites such as Palisade peaches, Rocky Ford melons and Olathe sweet corn.

2. Since local and regional products travel fewer miles, produce is allowed to ripen on the trees and in the fields, ensuring the best flavor.

3. Buying local maintains jobs, sustains family farms and ranches, and contributes nearly $16 billion to the state economy annually.

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