ABOVE: A vendor booth set up at the Fairmont Farmers’ Market in the Five Lakes Centre parking lot in Fairmont. The market is set to open for the season this Saturday.Sentinel file photo.

FAIRMONT — Now that it’s summer and the weather welcomes outdoor leisure, people can indulge in home-grown or hand-made items at the farmers’ market in Fairmont.

For years, the farmers’ market has offered a generous supply of produce, baked goods, craftswork and more items from numerous sellers. The market is slated to begin from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, beginning June 14, and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays from July to October, outside of the Five Lakes Centre.

President and Board Member of the Fairmont Farmers’ Market, Doug Abel, has worked with fellow board members to ensure the farmers’ market has been operating each summer and early fall for more than 20 years. Fifteen years ago, the market was moved from Gomsrud Park to the mall.

Abel’s appreciation for agriculture, produce, gardening and personal love of the work has driven him to keep the farmers’ market thriving and the community supporting it.

“I like gardening and I like seeing this expand to a larger scale at the farmers’ market,” Abel said.

The local farmers’ market has evolved considerably and now features much of the work of Martin County bakers, artists and individuals who show and sell their crafts alongside farmers and gardeners.

“There are no qualifications; if vendors have something other than produce, that’s fine,” Abel said.

In partnership with Rural Advantage and Project 1590, the farmers’ market continues its free token program, Power of Produce, for children ages four to 12 and senior citizens. The token program was introduced in 2019 and gives $2 and $4 to children and seniors, respectively, toward their purchases of items at the farmers’ market.

“They can use [the tokens] on produce to purchase what they like,” said Abel. “It’s good to teach them how to shop smart and eat healthy, and it keeps them interested in coming to the farmers’ market.”

Power of Produce depends on community contributions to keep going. Donations can be delivered to the market or a board member.

“It’s good for the community, and it’s all donated money. We’re always looking for more donors, the money will eventually be gone. Anything we can get is always appreciated,” Abel said.

The farmers’ market garners hundreds of residents at the Five Lakes Centre each year, and this year is expected to be no different. According to Abel, there are approximately 10 to 12 vendors registered to sell a variety of goods. To become a vendor for the farmers’ market, the fee is $125. For more information contact (507) 238-5449, fairmontfarmersmarketassoc@gmail or visit the Facebook page.

“Come see what we have and the products sold by different vendors,” Abel said. “[For vendors] it’s a nice way to move anything you have a hobby of or like to do [to the community]. If you want to sell, it’s more than welcome.”