With summer in full swing, so are many of the farmers’ markets in our area. How enjoyable it is on a Friday night or Saturday morning to head to the local market and purchase locally-grown meats, eggs, cheeses and produce. The reality is that buying local has many hidden benefits that we don’t always stop to think about as consumers.

Talking to the producer is one of the greatest benefits of buying local, because the products you purchase now come with a name and face. You are given the unique ability to talk to the person who grew and harvested what you’re going to feed your family. Talking to the producer is a great way to determine how livestock and poultry are housed and fed.

Choosing the right market is important. Many markets offer similar produce, but some offer a nice variety of cheeses, meats and eggs. Finding a market that offers the products you’re looking for—as well as feeling a connection to the grower—is part of choosing your market. Going to the one closest to you is not always the best option—don’t be afraid to ‘shop’ around until you feel you have found a market that suits your needs. The quality of the products you receive and knowing that your food is locally sourced is worth the extra effort of going to a farmers’ market.

For some, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) might be a better choice than a market. With this option, you pay the farmer upfront for their costs (some offer payment options) and pick up the produce at a designated spot. Pick ups are generally on a weekly basis but some offer bi-weekly pick-ups or delivery for an added fee. In most cases, a CSA offers a selection of main packages to choose from that contain fruits and vegetables. Some CSAs also offer secondary packages that can include meat, eggs, bread and jams. Pricing is based off of the main package selected and any secondary packages added. It is important to note that like farmers’ markets, CSAs are seasonal and only run for the spring, summer and fall. In many cases, you can ask to visit the farm. Farm visits are a great way to get to know the farm and farmers producing the products you’re choosing. It allows you to see growing and/or harvesting in action, though this does vary from farm to farm.

The greatest benefit of buying local is knowing you are supporting a farm in your area. Buying local makes certain that the money you spend on food at the market or CSA stays in the community.

If you’re looking for some locally-grown produce while you’re visiting the Farmpark, make sure to stop at the Plant Science Center. Throughout the year, vegetables grown by the Plant Science Center staff are offered for sale. If you’re looking to start a garden but aren’t sure how or have limited space, the Plant Science Center staff members are a good resource for helpful tips and space-saving ideas.

As winter approaches and the markets and CSAs come to an end or your gardens are ready to harvest, you can still enjoy fresh locally-sourced produce. Canning or freezing your vegetables is a great way to keep a little taste of summer through the winter. Don’t view it as the end of harvest, but as an opportunity to keep summer in your freezer or pantry all year long.