Farmers Market – A remedy for shortages

The Dripping Springs Farmers Market at one point was temporarily closed this spring, but common sense prevailed and it is going strong. The market, located at “The Triangle” (intersection of RR12 and U.S. 290) has safety measures in place, and is situated outdoors with ample space.

“When we were first shut down, because of the pandemic, we were closed for a week,” Laurel Robertson said, Dripping Springs Farmers Market Manager. “Judge’s order. He ruled we were not essential. We petitioned the city and county. We’re the most basic of grocery stores.”

During the past months, shortages on certain items at grocery stores have become commonplace. The supply chain breaks down because of the illness of workers in the fields, processing plants and transportation. Locally, however the supply chain for the Farmer’s Market is in close proximity, with goods more than likely transported by a pickup truck.

Following the week the market was closed, they received the “essential” seal of approval, and reopened the market. When they did, the community also gave their “seal of approval.”

“We had people, 65 to 70 of them waiting to get in. The vendors sold out. There was a run on the market. We’re still having an increase of shoppers,” Robertson said. “They came to the Farmers Market out of desperation? They liked it and came back. It’s outside, there’s lots of space, people felt more secure (than a supermarket).”

Following protocol, shoppers have been social distancing, the vendors are all required to wear masks and booths are spaced for safe distancing. “It’s perfectly safe. Shoppers are given good spacing. There’s hand-washing stations and disinfectant at every booth and there is no seating,” Robertson said.

The disinfectant provided is also a local product, donated to the city by Desert Door Sotol. The distillery gave the city a supply in 55-gallon drums. “When you couldn’t get disinfectant, Desert Door came through,” Robertson said. The Farmers Market is a department under the Parks and Recreation Department of the city.

Robertson has been the manager since 2016. “These are times we are made for. So, why are we here? Food security. The community got a real dose of reality. It is easier to bring in food (to the market) in a pickup,” she continued.

“When all of the network broke down, the Farmers Market was there. The beauty, simplicity, reliability and it is sustaining. People woke up and the market was there no matter what.

Most vendors are 30 to 50 or so. Some also in their 20s, selling for an employer. Several are in their 60s with a few in their 70s…all ages, every age. They love gardening and sell directly.”

Of course with the seasons changing, so do the vegetables and other produce. “Seasonal produce adds life. The change in seasons keeps one in touch with the environment and you are eating seasonally. Right now it’s melons. In the fall it’s broccoli and then the holiday market with its crafts and unique gifts,” she said.

This year, the annual Tomato Festival will not be held, due to the virus. Hopefully there will be a fall festival, but that is yet to be seen. “We are very compliant,” Robertson said.

Getting your food fresh, right off the farm and in an outdoor area, safe and secure.