Celebrate the opening of Cottonwood Falls Community Market, Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cottonwood Falls Park.
“As our climate and our future become more uncertain, a strong local agriculture network is essential for sustaining our long-term regional food needs,” said Jesse Woodward, markets director. “Local markets like Cottonwood Market create permanent and secure local livelihoods as well as access to unique local products and produce, so we’re excited to see everyone at the market this weekend.”
Market-goers will find everything from bedding plants and garden greens to artwork and artisan gifts. One vendor has promised greenhouse grown local tomatoes at opening day. New and drop-in vendors will add to the exciting mix of full-season vendors.
For the 2012 season, West Kootenay EcoSociety is making improvements to the market site and reaching out to new customers and vendors to increase local food self-sufficiency. A community initiative grant from Columbia Basin Trust through the City of Nelson will allow some repairs and upgrades to the site. Volunteers have already removed graffiti from the site and begun some landscaping work.
EcoSociety encourages customers to leave their cars at home and walk to the market. Live music will be provided by local favourite Catherine McGrath from 10 a.m. to noon and Pickled Thistle from noon to 2 p.m.