New local flavours guide highlights 38 farms, 10 markets across Leeds, Grenville and Lanark region
As the summer harvest season peaks, FoodCore Leeds-Grenville-Lanark has released an expanded and updated resource to help residents and visitors find local farms and markets. The new Local Flavours Leeds-Grenville-Lanark guide features an online map and printed brochure listing 10 weekly farmers markets and 38 farms, apiaries, and sugar bushes across the region.
The project builds on the earlier Lanark Local Flavour guide created by EcoPerth and aims to make it easier to access fresh, locally grown food while supporting area producers.
“It’s the perfect time of year to get out and experience what our amazing local farms have to offer. Purchasing local fresh and delicious produce is a great thing for your health, your taste buds and our local economies. It’s a triple win,” said Elaine Murkin, a member of FoodCore LGL and Manager of Population Health with the South East Health Unit.
The online map is available at FoodCoreLGL.ca, and printed copies of the guide have been distributed to farmers markets, municipal offices, food businesses, and tourism centres throughout Leeds, Grenville and Lanark counties.
Sarah Mackenzie, who runs Hollyhock Grange with her husband Eric Stewart and serves as president of the Perth Farmers Market board, said the guide will be a helpful tool for both customers and farmers.
“Farmers in this area grow some of the best tasting and unique foods that you won’t necessarily find at your big grocery store,” said Mackenzie. “While they are working long hours planting for our relatively short season, they don’t have a lot of time to also market themselves… the Local Flavour website… will make shopping for seasonal food easier for everyone.”
The guide includes addresses for most listings, but organizers remind the public to always contact farms in advance before visiting, unless the listing specifically states that farm gate sales are available.
FoodCore LGL welcomes additional producers who would like to be included in future editions. Interested farms can email: localflavours@thetablecfc.org.
The Local Flavours project was made possible through a Lanark County community grant, with administrative support from The Table Community Food Centre.