The economy is being reflected at the basic level of consumerism at Farmer's Markets in the Bitterroot Valley.
Hamilton's Farmer's Market ended the season October 3rd and, "It went really well during these hard times," according to Market Manager Laura Craig. "We had lots of new vendors - people hoping to sell their wares and add to their incomes. We also had an increase in the variety of products for sale, including lots of arts and crafts."
Craig added that there were more local customers at the beginning of the season than they'd had in previous years and that tourist shopping fell off a bit in July and August.
The success of the market is measured by asking vendors how business is going. "They all said it was not as good as last year, but not low enough to quit," said Craig. "Hamilton's Farmer's Market is always evolving and changing, but has shown a steady growth from year to year."
Those who want to sell items at the Hamilton Farmer's Market have to follow two rules: you must live in Ravalli County and you must make, grow, or cook what you sell (no imports).
Craig has already set her sights on 2010, when the market will begin on May 1st with May Pole dances. You can contact Craig at (406) 961.0004 for more information.
Meanwhile, the Darby's Farmer's Market also reflected the slower economy, with fewer customers and less vendors.
"It was a quiet season that didn't really get going until just this month," said Market Coordinator Tari Conroy.
The Darby Farmer's Market doesn't have an official ending date and will offer late season crops for one more weekend, weather permitting. "Farmers would like to sell their squash, tomatoes, onions, apples and cabbage," said Conroy.
Darby reported fewer venders until the week after "National Farmer's Market Week" in August when business picked up.
"It was a puzzlement to us," said Conroy who is looking forward to the market again next year.
Conroy can be reached at (406) 821.3753.
- Michelle McConnaha reporting for kpax.com
