Farmers Market
Farmers Markets are a growing trend in BC, and the industry celebrated its success in March with the First Annual BC Farmers' Markets Awards.
Elizabeth Quinn, executive director of the BC Association of Farmers Markets says the annual award gala is a great way to celebrate the achievements of those people who are helping grow the concept of farm-to-table food.
"This is a great initiative to recognize the people who make local foods available at a grassroots level in British Columbia," Quinn says.
Bruce Fatkin of the Abbotsford Farm and Country Market was singled out as the market manager of the year, who has guided the wildly successful market since it launched 10 years ago.
The Taves Family Farm was chosen as Farmers' Market Vendor of the Year; a fitting tribute for a family that has been producing food for the community for three generations.
As well, four farmers' markets were singled out for recognition:
Sorrento Village Farmer's Market (small category, 7-20 vendors per week)
South Cariboo Farmers' Market in 100 Mile House (medium category, 21-60 vendors per week)
Vernon Farmers’ Market (large category 61+ vendors per week)
The UBC Farm Community Market was also featured in the award banquet, winning a Special Achievement Award for its promotion of the farm market concept.