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Organically grown, locally grown, grass fed, farm raised, free-range. These are just a few of the descriptions used by vendors at the Hodag Farmers’ Market to describe their products. Sometimes it can be a bit confusing. And while their products and the manner in which they are produced may vary, one thing is always true: Everything the farmers sell has been grown or produced right here in the Northwoods.

Vendors must be from Oneida or any adjacent counties, and they must produce or grow all the items that they sell. So no truck loads of Florida watermelons will ever find their way to our market! Instead, you can be assured that you are getting only fresh produce grown right here by your friends and neighbors. This is just one of the rules that have been in place since the market was established 14 years ago.

While farmers are notoriously independent, they too are required to know and follow many regulations set by the state and federal government. These rules are meant to provide the highest level of protection for the consumer and assure the safety of the overall food-chain.

One of the most regulated products sold at the market is meat. While farmers are allowed to process and sell uninspected meat from their farms once they decide to bring it to market they must follow strict rules governed by the USDA and the state of Wisconsin. All meat sold at the market must be processed in a state-inspected licensed facility and the farmers selling it need to be licensed. The sale of preserves, baked goods, eggs and dairy products also require special licensing. Often this requires having a certified kitchen and special packaging facilities, which can be an extremely expensive investment. Fortunately, non-profit organizations are exempt from this restriction, which means that the much loved Saturday morning bake sales are able to provide the shoppers with homemade treats while raising funds for their organization.

So next time you wander thru the market and wonder about just what grass-fed or organically-grown means, don’t be afraid to ask questions. That is what makes buying directly from the producer so great.

And this week the vegetables are beginning to roll in so there should be lots to talk about. Along with the early crops such as onions, greens, peas and carrots, you can expect to start seeing beans, zucchini, potatoes, onions, cucumbers and even a few peppers. Of course a great selection of cut flowers, plants, homemade soaps and lotions and other quality crafts provide many shopping choices. Honey and maple syrup are available in many different sizes and packaging. So start your Saturday out with a stroll through the Hodag Farmers’ Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pioneer Park.

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