Farmers market returns to Bissell Park with new zero-waste initiative
ELORA – The Elora Farmers Market held its second market of the season on May 11, and despite the weather, there was a big turnout to visit artisans, bakers, farmers and makers.
There is a new zero-waste initiative this year that market co-founder Barb Lee brought to vendors.
Lisa Langson and husband Rob Langson of Langson Farms help oversee the food recovery program.
“Anything left over at the end of the day from all the produce vendors and things produced in commercial kitchens, the Centre Wellington Food Bank will collect,” Lisa said.
She hopes to grow the program as the season progresses.
“It’s amazing how we can help each other. Zero waste - because there is the need,” she said.
Once again this year a community freezer is set up at the Langsons’ booth.
“There’s a lot of good people around this community,” said Rob.
“Sometimes people come and help themselves to what they need and leave a donation. Other customers will come and pay full price for stuff in that community freezer and make sure that all the money for the product goes to the food bank.”
The Langsons help to keep the fridge stocked with donations. “There’s a lot of need out there, so everybody does a little bit, and a lot of things get done,” Rob said.
For the third year, the parkside stage is in full swing. Stage manager Phil Shepherd explained the stage offers “an opportunity for local talent to express themselves.
“It’s totally open, there is no particular genre. We can have one person, or we can squeeze 10 people under the tent.”
The sound system is ready to go when performers arrive and Shepherd is there to ensure things run smoothly for them.
“The schedule is set beforehand. It’s a great opportunity,” Shepherd said.
“We have a huge variety of music, from guitars and singers to xylophones, you name it.”
Singer and guitarist Maddy Mount was performing for the first time at the market, and market-goers gathered at picnic tables to enjoy her performance.
The market runs every Saturday at Bissell Park from 9am to 1pm until Sept. 12, when the market moves to the Highland Rugby Club in Fergus until Dec. 21.
