© J.N. Urbanski – Usage prohibited without consent

This week is National Farmer’s Market week. The invaluable, local farmer’s market that is sorely missed all winter is more than just a Saturday errand, it’s a living legend, a place where all the hard work, sweat and tears of production finally gets its showcase. Shopping at farmer’s markets greatly stimulates the local economy, creating jobs and increasing access to fresh, healthful food. 

Producers in the Catskills have been offering some of our finest local food and beverages at markets like Pakatakan Market at the Round Barn on Route 30 in Halcottsville, for years during the summer season. Pakatakan is a truly eclectic market with farmers, bakers, brewers, distillers, beekeepers, butchers, herbalists and mycologists. You will also find a great breakfast there and some jewelry, home goods and clothing.

Farming is one of the most thankless, high risk professions that’s also essential to our lives. We can do without the stock market, but not without the farmer’s market. Spending money at your local market is consumer power at its most effective. Spending one dollar locally benefits your community by five to seven dollars, meaning that for every dollar you spend, the effect on that community’s economy is worth as much as seven times that amount.

If you think you can’t do anything to help improve the economy, think again. You can shop at the local market and make an substantial difference without much extra effort.

© J.N. Urbanski – Usage prohibited without consent

© J.N. Urbanski – Usage prohibited without consent

© J.N. Urbanski – Usage prohibited without consent