“Farmers Markets are a proactive approach to good health, and they go a long way to contributing to our identity as a health-conscious community”, says Dieter Dudy of Thistle Farms in Kamloops

Farmers Market season is already well underway here in BC, and the provincial government is encouraging all of us to Buy BC this summer by visiting our local farmers market to find fresh produce, meat, locally prepared foods and artisan products.

“When Buy BC was relaunched last year, we wanted to make it easy for consumers to identify local foods and beverages and connect them to the people behind the fresh products they enjoy,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture.

“Farmers markets are a great place to find some of the best local products and to meet the individuals growing, raising, processing and producing the food on their plates.” 

I spoke with Dieter Dudy, Kamloops City Councillor, and former Director of the Kamloops Farmers Market and he indicated that:

“Our farmers market was quite involved with the last iteration of the Buy B.C. program and my hope is that they will embrace the new model. The intent of course is to make the concept of buying local top of mind for consumers”.

Dudy continued, “The benefits come in many different ways. First off, you’re supporting local agriculture and by extension local businesses. The money generated stays in the community. Secondly, you’re encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle choices and adding to the vitality and vibrancy of the community”.

Popham met with Katrina Dwulit, Executive Director and Market Manager from the Esquimalt Farmers Market; Dwulit stated:

"It is so fulfilling to be part of the local food security movement that is currently getting a lot more attention.”

“With programs like Buy BC shining a light on B.C. farmers and food processors, I hope a much-needed shift in the way we eat starts to be the norm versus a trend. Minister Popham has a clear passion for her role and everyone in local food systems is benefiting through the education and information that the ministry is putting forward, not to mention the funding."

In addition, the Province is supporting more lower-income households to access the fresh, locally grown, healthy food found at B.C. farmers markets through the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM) Nutrition Coupon Program.

This program, delivered by BCAFM, allows British Columbians to connect with each other around food and community, while directly supporting local farmers throughout the province. Every dollar redeemed at a farmer’s market goes directly to the local farmer, grower and producer, and strengthens local economies.

Again, in speaking with Kamloops City Councillor Dieter Dudy, he spoke well of the program.

“In the past number of years, we have been actively involved in the coupon program and I think they’re a no brainer. You are allowing people who otherwise would not have access to good, high quality local food the ability to do so. I have not seen the coupons yet this year... which is somewhat troubling”.

“I will look into whether or not we are a part of the initiative this year.”

According to the organization for Farmers Markets, these summer events are an incredible way for locals and tourists alike to connect and buy some of BC’s best food.  And that seems to be the feeling locally as well, according to Dieter Dudy;

“It comes down to connecting people to their food systems, and making them realize that it benefits us economically, socially, physically, etc. It is a proactive approach to good health and goes a long way to contributing to our identity as a health-conscious community.”

HERE’S HOW YOU CAN LEARN MORE:

·         For more information about Buy BC: https://buybc.gov.bc.ca/

·         Find a local farmers market: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/

·         For more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019HLTH0069-000873