Kerr Village Farmers Market to close for 2011 season

The Kerr Village Farmers Market (KVFM) will not re-open for the 2011 season. Ironically, the closure is due in large part to the increasing popularity of such Saturday morning markets across the province.

Said Richard Messer, Executive Director, Kerr Village BIA, “Consumer interest in local agriculture continues to grow. But while demand has increased, the number of growers within a 100-mile radius has remained fairly constant. This makes it difficult for newly emerging markets like ours to continuously attract; and more importantly, retain farmers.” From a farmer’s perspective, longer established venues with higher foot traffic are simply more profitable, he added.

Initially launched as an organic market in 2007, the KVFM expanded in 2009 to include conventionally grown produce — in an effort to better serve the diversity of the Kerr Village community. All products sold at the market were grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked, smoked or processed by Ontario vendors.

“As we move forward, we will continue to evaluate our options,” Messer said. “Perhaps moving the KVFM to a different day of the week or changing the frequency from weekly to monthly.”

Despite the market’s closing, the BIA remains committed to promoting Kerr Village interests, attractions, services and events to the benefit of local businesses and the community at-large. The 3on3 Road Hockey Tournament returned to Kerr Street on Saturday, March 19. The highly anticipated Summer Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, June 25.

Planning for additional summer activities is currently underway.