Farmers market takes root in Springs

A dog-friendly option for fans of al fresco produce is coming to the Valley on July 9. The Springs Community Farmers Market debuts its planned 10-week run at Larson Park this weekend, with local farmers the primary focus.

“Local farmers are first on our list,” said Kelly Smith of Agricultural Community Events Farmers Market, the regional nonprofit which will operate the Springs market. The nonprofit manages a total of 12 farmers markets throughout Marin and Sonoma counties, with seasonal venues in Kenwood and Rohnert Park and year-round markets in Petaluma and Santa Rosa.

With an abundance of fresh produce available to shoppers in summer, why add another market to the mix in the Springs?

“We’re familiar with the Springs community and have sought a lot of public opinion on the best ways to make this market a success,” Smith said.

One hallmark of the nonprofit is its intent to tailor each market to the community it serves, reflecting a neighborhood’s appetites and preferences.

So in addition to fragrant summer-ripe bushels of Early Girls to take home, the Springs market will include lots of dine-in fan favorites. Sushinoma will be there rolling out savory creations; Creature Cold Brew will have coffee on tap; Jolly Pig BBQ will be tending its grill; Harvest Moon Café will serve fresh, seasonal plates; Kassykate Olives & Olive Oil will curate a good starter; and Big Table Baking and Catering will finish with sweet treats.

The Springs market differs from Sonoma’s Tuesday Farmers Market in a few distinct ways: alcohol will not be available for purchase, and the music will be decidedly more low-key.

Special BYOB permission for the event was granted by Sonoma County Regional Parks through negotiations with Supervisor Susan Gorin’s office, so patrons are welcome to bring their own beer or wine. Hillbilly Blue, a bluegrass and folk duo, kicks off the entertainment this weekend.

Market managers plan to have up to 30 vendors at the Springs market eventually, adding to the July 9 roster of 20. Several local merchants are on the list for the debut, including the Stinging Nettle with its tinctures, oils and herbs, and the one-of-a-kind baubles of Jungle Maiden Jewelry. The whimsical creations of Gypsy Garden will be available for purchase, as well as wares from Artensanias Mexicanas. Popo the Clown will be there, too, painting faces and twisting balloons for the kids.

The Springs Community Farmers Market offers $10 in matching funds for shoppers using Calfresh cards, the electronic benefit transfer (EBT) system used in California for redemption of issued public assistance. Partnering with Calfresh is an acknowledgment of the demographics of the Springs, as well as an effort to “decolonize the diet,” in the parlance of vendor Sister Womyn Fire Farm.

Reached for comment a few days before the market’s debut, manager Smith was still firming up details. Asked where patrons would picnic on Sunday, she mentioned that a few tables are already part of the park’s hardscape, and suggested that there might be a tent, shade umbrellas, and additional seating brought in. Acknowledging that every neighborhood market is, by definition, unique, Smith admitted to some fluidity in her plans.

“Sometimes these things unfold organically,” Smith said.

But she’s more ready than not, governed by a philosophy that brings farmers and their food to the fore. “It’ll be a really lovely farmers market setting not necessarily focused on music and entertainment,” Smith said.

Springs residents - and others - are encouraged to walk or ride bikes on Sunday. Motorists are instructed to park at Flowery Elementary School. Handicapped parking will be available inside the park’s main entrance at 329 DeChene Ave. Children and leashed dogs are welcome.

The Springs Farmers Market runs every Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. through Sept. 10.

Contact Kate at kate.williams@sonomanews.com.