From Farm to Table: Supporting Local This Summer (and Maybe Growing Your Own!)
Summer brings us into the peak of fresh produce season in WNY! Farmers markets burst with vibrant colors, local orchards invite you for berry picking, and home gardens start to flourish. This month, let’s celebrate the “farm-to-table” movement – not just as a culinary trend, but as a way to support our WNY community and enjoy the freshest flavors of summer. Plus, have you ever considered growing your own food? It’s easier than you think and can be incredibly rewarding (and budget-friendly!).
Supporting local farmers and producers means more than just getting delicious, seasonal food. It means strengthening our local economy, reducing our carbon footprint by cutting down on transportation, and enjoying produce picked at its peak, often resulting in higher nutritional value and incredible flavor.
Ways to Embrace the “Farm to Table” Life in June (and Where to Find It!):
Visit Your Local Farmers Market: This is the easiest way to connect directly with the people who grow your food. You’ll find an amazing array of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s a wonderful Saturday morning tradition! Here are a few great markets in our area to check out this June:
Williamsville Farmers Market (Amherst Town Hall Lot, 5583 Main St, Williamsville): Open Saturdays, 8 AM – 1 PM. A great spot for a wide variety of fresh local foods.
Elmwood Village Farmers Market (Elmwood and Bidwell Parkways, Buffalo): Open Saturdays, 8 AM – 1 PM. A bustling market in a vibrant Buffalo neighborhood.
North Tonawanda City Market (Corner of Payne Ave and Robinson St, North Tonawanda): Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 7 AM – 1 PM. A long-standing market with a vast selection.
South Buffalo Farmer’s Market (Cazenovia Park, Buffalo): Open Sundays, 9 AM – 1 PM. A wonderful option for Sunday morning produce runs.
Kenmore Farmers Market (2919 Delaware Ave, Tonawanda): Open Sundays, 9 AM – 1 PM. A friendly neighborhood market offering fresh goods.
Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Program: Many local farms offer CSA shares, where you pay an upfront fee and receive a weekly box of seasonal produce throughout the growing season. It’s a great way to commit to eating local and try new vegetables.
Dine at Restaurants that Source Locally: Look for local restaurants that proudly list their farm partners on their menus. This is a delicious way to support both local farmers and businesses.
Plant Your Own Garden: Even a small container garden on a balcony can provide fresh herbs, tomatoes, or peppers. If you have more space, a backyard garden can significantly supplement your grocery list. It’s a rewarding activity that connects you with nature and provides incredibly fresh food.
Growing Your Own: Getting Started
Don’t have a green thumb? No problem! Start small. A few pots on a sunny windowsill can grow herbs like basil or mint. For a backyard, consider easy-to-grow vegetables like lettuce, radishes, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Local nurseries and gardening centers can offer advice and seedlings.
This June, let’s savor the bounty of our local communities. By choosing to support local farmers and perhaps even getting our hands dirty in the garden, we not only enjoy incredibly fresh food but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable community.
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