This winter season, as an intern for Seacoast Eat Local, has been one of the most wonderful and educational experience thus far. I’ve learned so much from both Shelly and Jill, my amazing co-interns, the array of farmers, and the many customers that I’ve met. I can still remember my first farmer’s market, and the buzz of energy that vibrated right before the opening of the day. My excitement was obvious then, and continued to remain for the rest of the market days.
As a Sustainable Agriculture major at the University of New Hampshire, I felt so much emphasis on food production, and ways to grow the best crops, that I forgot one of the most important aspect of agriculture: people. As an intern, I was able to see how much these markets and farmers have made an impact on the community. There were families that were regulars, who were dedicated to feeding their families local and healthy foods, and also supporting their farmers. I’ve enjoyed witnessing how excited people were for products like kohlrabi, for both those who’ve never had the product and those who were avid kohlrabi enthusiasts. The community and atmosphere of the markets were so open and welcoming, and it made me beam to think about how people from different places, lives and experiences were all able to enjoy the simplicity of food. This experience has helped push my desire to become part of our local food system, and learn even more. And though the Winter’s Farmer Market season is now over, a whole new season is coming up, which means more food, excitement, and community.