Ann Foster didn’t know where things were headed when she started the Salmon Creek Farmers’ Market.
Now, the market is returning for its 10th year on June 11, and the eighth year at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center.
“Its whole agenda is about giving small food and farm businesses another marketing opportunity,” Foster said.
When the market started, it featured about a half-dozen produce vendors. That number has ballooned to as many as 30 vendors and growers from Clark County. The market offers live music during the lunch hour, but the focus is still on good local food.
“It’s not a destination. There aren’t things for kids. There isn’t carnival food. There isn’t picnic tables. It’s for shopping,” Foster said. “It’s got a different feel to it.”
Columbia River Sourdough Bakery and Red Truck Farm in Ridgefield are a couple of the local food establishments that had beginnings at the market. Foster said it’s always sad to see vendors leave, but she’s happy for their success and the springboard role the market played in it.
“It’s got a very strong community vibe,” she said.
The market offers credit, debit and EBT services, and Fresh Match matches up to $5 off an EBT transaction for purchases of fruits and vegetables, according to a market press release. Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks for seniors and for WIC clients are accepted, as well.
Prepared food is always available at the market, according to the release, and growers include flower vendors, as well as farms offering perennials, annuals, and vegetable, berry and herb starts. Foster said all the farmers markets in Clark County care deeply about curating a space to feature great food grown locally.
“We’re so devoted to giving space to local business,” she said. “We need to encourage that kind of growth in Clark County.”
