By A.Gortan, Citizen Journalist

The Prospect Lake area has long been recognized for its bountiful farms and talented artisans, and thanks to the volunteers of the Prospect Lake District Community Association (PLDCA), the new Local Food & Country Market is bringing those tastes and talents together under one roof.

The new Country Market is finding a permanent home in the Prospect Lake Community Hall on Sparton Road. Since the 1960’s the community hall has been a natural focus point for neighbours to come together and has a history of gathering for community events.

Entering their second year, the Spring Country Market which took place in May, featured 55 tables. The market showcased an array of freshly baked goods, jams and preserves, seasonal foods, plants (including native “deer resistant” plants), herbs, household and childrens items, garden tools, crafts and more.

Adding to the lively market atmosphere was home cooked food and toe tapping music. While the market was in full swing, hungry patrons enjoyed a hot brunch provided by ‘Jack’s Community Kitchen’, while munching to the sounds of folk-bluegrass band ‘Out Stealing Mules’.

Vendor Jackie Wynn was thrilled with the turnout. “I made more today than any other Summer Market, so I was pleased…it was so well run and so well attended.”

To ensure quality and diversity, each vendor seen displaying at other local fairs was individually invited by the PLDCA to participate in the Country Market. The organization went even further deciding not to charge for table rentals. “To share the risk with our vendors, we decided to provide the tables free for the first two years”, said organizer Fred Haynes.

The PLDCA received grants from the Saanich Legacy Foundation and Saanich Council to assist in marketing the Country Market. To aid in planning and gain valuable market insights, the PLDCA enlisted the help of Robert Thompson of the Southern Vancouver Island Direct Farm marketing Association and Farm Fresh magazine and Linda Geggie, Coordinator Capital Region Food and Agriculture Initiatives.

As a result, the next Country Market which is scheduled for September 28th, has been invited to join the inaugural Saanich Peninsula Flavour Trails, taking place this fall. “The Local Food & Country Market has attracted some really talented artisan food makers and local growers this year, and the Flavour Trails is excited to have the market as one of our feature events during the September ‘Harvest Days’ celebration”, says Linda Geggie.

With the increasing popularity of Spring and Fall Country Markets, there is even talk of a regular Sunday market in July and August of next year. According to Fred Haynes, “As believers in the importance of local food and in supporting our local farms and artisans, it has been a very worthwhile project to be involved in. It is one which brings a rich community moment to our rural experience.”

Join the Local Food & Country Market September 28th at the Prospect Lake Community Hall. Some FREE tables for vendors remain available. Call 250-708-0702 for details.