Amid a gray concrete parking lot and a myriad of multi-colored cars, there’s an abundant rainbow – greens, yellows, reds, oranges – of fresh vegetables and fruits and even flowers grown by local producers.

Wednesday, August 23, 2000

Amid a gray concrete parking lot and a myriad of multi-colored cars, there’s an abundant rainbow – greens, yellows, reds, oranges – of fresh vegetables and fruits and even flowers grown by local producers.

Folks visiting the Farmers’ Market poke and squeeze each piece of produce to determine its freshness before purchasing the homegrown goodies. Their efforts are later rewarded as the taste of freshly picked produce rivals that of products found in the supermarkets.

It’s the fourth year the Farmer’s Market has been in business in the northwest corner of Younker’s parking lot at the OakPark Mall. It’s easy to find and well worth the visit.

"Right now we have a little bit of everything, except for fall squash," John Ulland, member of the board of directors, said.

The list includes a variety of vegetables, some fruits, honey, eggs and flowers such as gladiolus and zennias.

Ulland predicts there will eventually be some meat offered by one of the vendors when it becomes possible to have a portable freezer in the parking lot.

The high quality taste of the produce is the main reason residents visit the Farmers’ Market Monday and Thursdays, but there are other benefits as well.

"The freshness – all of this was just picked this morning," Ulland said. "And you know the producer. You know (the produce) is not full of chemicals. The people here work hard to make sure you get it good and fresh."

Most of the farmers who sell their goods at the Farmers’ Market make at least part of their income from the market. Many of the farmers travel to Albert Lea and Mason City and other surrounding markets, selling from their pickups, vans and folding tables four to five days a week.

A new program with Mower County’s Women, Infants, Children allows pregnant women and mothers to purchase food from the vendors at the Farmers’ Market. Ulland said the benefits go both ways.

"I’m happy to get some young people out here so they know what really good vegetables are supposed to taste like," Ulland said.

The mothers and children also benefit from fresh produce that aren’t full of chemicals.

Of course, the farmers are happy to exchange the $4 vouchers for goods.

The WIC participant pays any amount over the $4 voucher, but does not receive any money back if less than $4 is spent.

Only the farmers with the orange posters are certified for the program.

"We’re getting a lot of new customers out here with the program," Ulland said. And that’s exactly what he likes to see.

The Farmers’ Market is located in the northwest corner of the Younker’s parking lot from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday and Thursday.