The sound of morning rain pouring down made it unclear if the farmer-to-consumer program would transpire as planned, but soon enough the clouds dispersed and a little sunshine popped through.
The brains behind the operation, Hillsdale’s Promotion & Education Chair Joe Draper, held the county Farm Bureau’s first farmer-to-consumer event in late June. As part of the Connecting Communities grant program, Hillsdale worked collectively to design an event answering their community’s questions about where food comes from.
Several volunteer members rose that morning ready to share their knowledge about agriculture and help debunk the myths social media tends to portray to the general consumer.
Among them was Scott Welden, who shared his vision like this: “I see potential for strengthening community involvement, membership growth and connecting with Hillsdale County residents.”
Consumers venturing to the farmers market on the courthouse lawn in downtown Hillsdale were surprised to learn farmers were eagerly awaiting their arrival. Customers received reusable grocery totes to carry agriculture-related materials and their market purchases. They had their pick of materials donated by some of our state commodity-group friends: recipes, nutrition facts, agritourism directories and much more.
With resources focused on both adults and children, there was a little something for everyone!
Marketgoers filled their agriculture bingo cards as they visited with farmers stationed among the vendor booths and near commodity-specific informational signs. Each bingo stamp sparked conversation and a learning experience for families as they strolled through the market.
Completed bingo cards allowed both kids and grown-ups to choose from a variety of prizes, including pizza cutters, lanyards and whisks (from United Dairy Industry of Michigan); corn holders, work gloves, sunglasses, hot/cold packs and golf tees (from Michigan Corn); and spelt flour cookbooks and samples (from The Andersons).
“I thought the concept of the program was great and interaction with consumers went well,” said Amber Kohler, president of the Hillsdale County Farm Bureau. “The young people seemed to really enjoy the bingo card game.
“I did witness one family with three small children attempt to find each sign on the bingo card and play as a family, talking about each sign. That was neat, watching mom and dad take the time with the kids and not just collecting stamps.”
At lunchtime, everyone got a free meal from Hillsdale Brewing Company, courtesy of the county Farm Bureau. Hillsdale Brewing makes a point to purchase local food products and the county Farm Bureau was glad to help reciprocate by supporting their business.
“I heard a few people say they thought it was great that we were there promoting where food comes from and it was nice to see farmers,” said Hillsdale member Cami Marz-Evans.
“It was great day at the farmer’s market and wonderful sight to look out at people holding their new bright green grocery tote, knowing that we had the opportunity to connect with our community and share where their food comes from.
“Our members were also very grateful for the warm welcome from the vendors and hope to connect in the future.”
Tuscola County Farm Bureau used their grant on a similar project, creating a retail edible-bean display in a local business. The display included information on the edible-bean industry so vital to the local economy, as well as recipes to help ensure a positive and tasty experience for consumers.
Looking to host a similar program with your county Farm Bureau? Contact Hillsdale or Tuscola County Farm Bureaus for more information.
Janelle Walworth is the administrative manager for the Hillsdale and Jackson County Farm Bureaus.
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