The popular Ladner Village Market hopes to be open this summer, but when that will be is still up in the air.
Market spokesperson Tracey McKnight says the Ladner Village Market is looking forward to an exciting year with new vendors again wishing to participate.
“The management team is progressing with the organizational end of the market so that when we are able to open following the guidelines of all levels of governments, we will be ready to go,” McKnight told the Optimist in an email. “It will be many weeks before a decision needs to be made regarding the June markets and we have updated all our vendors that we will keep them posted
“The Ladner Village Market banner which goes up at the entrance to the Village and the roadside signage will be put up once we have a clear idea of when we will open for this season. Our vendors have been informed of our decision and are excited to be involved once we feel comfortable to open.”
Meanwhile fears over transmission of the COVID-19 virus has prompted the province to urge farmers markets to sell products online.
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry issued an order last week saying only food vendors would be allowed to sell at the markets. Sellers of any other merchandise are not permitted.
“Moving farmers markets online will help ensure the health and safety of vendors and consumers, while still providing the same fresh and local food that families all over the province count on,” said Agriculture Minister Lana Popham in a news release.
Heather O’Hara, executive director of the Farmers’ Association, said that the importance of local food and farmers has never been clearer.
“Our new B.C. Farmers’ Markets Online platform will offer a new shopping channel for the peak farmers’ market season this summer,” she said.
To find farmers markets online, go to bcfarmersmarkettrail.com.
With files from Times Colonist
