BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Along with greening grass and warming temperatures, spring also signals the start of farmers’ markets across Colorado. Farmers’ markets are considered essential businesses by the state and will open to serve Coloradans looking to purchase food and agricultural products.
“Farmers markets are a fundamental part of Colorado’s food supply chain, which becomes more apparent in a year like this,” said Kate Greenberg, Commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “Markets offer a great option for consumers to purchase the food they need for their families while supporting Colorado farmers and ranchers.”
There are more than 100 farmers’ markets across Colorado, with many opening in May and most operational by June. A list of markets across the state, along with a map of locations is available at coloradoproud.org.
According to the Colorado Farmers Market Association (CFMA), visitors should check market websites and social media pages to find any changes in operations. Customers can expect many markets to continue operating, with new guidelines in place for social distancing. Some markets are implementing online ordering platforms to allow for ordering ahead and curbside pickup. CFMA is coordinating with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and local public health agencies to ensure priority is placed on public health for all Colorado farmers’ markets.
“You’ll find that your market manager is asking you to come in, buy your food, and leave, which is different from what we might be used to with farmers markets as a social gathering place,” said Rosalind May, CFMA Executive Director.
CFMA and the Colorado Department of Agriculture encourage community members to follow the guidelines set by the farmers’ market: keep your distance from others, let vendors bag products for you rather than touching any products, and stay for only the time needed to buy your food.
For more information, visit coloradoproud.org or contact Loretta Lopez at 303-869-9175 or Loretta.Lopez@state.co.us.
— Colorado Department of Agriculture
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