Season ripe at area farmers markets

By JULIET BRISKIN | Country World Central Texas

May 31, 2001 -- One of the great joys of summer in Texas is the abundance of fresh produce. Unlike the often lackluster produce found in the grocery store, area farmers markets offer a fresh alternative. Fruits and vegetables are often picked just hours before arriving at the market.

Across Texas consumers are treated to roadside stands overflowing with strawberries and peaches, to immense city markets where purchases can be made by the case. Whatever the need, farmers markets will more than likely be able to fill it with fresh products for a reasonable price.

In Dallas, savy shoppers preferring the freshest produce have been filling their baskets at the Dallas Farmers Market since 1961. Located on 12 acres in downtown Dallas, the market offers fruits and vegetables, herbs, bedding plants, fresh cut flowers, pottery, and during the holidays Christmas trees and poinsettias.

The retail market opens daily at 7:00 a.m. and is only closed Christmas and New Year's Day. During peak season the wholesale market services local restaurants and produce markets from 11:00 p.m. to 8 a.m. As with any good market -- arriving early is best.

The main offices on Pearl Street offer maps, an ATM, public restrooms, and an information booth. Patrons are encouraged to stop at the food pavilion for a cup of $.50 coffee then start wandering. There is so much to choose from at this market that when time permits, buyers browse through once or twice before making a purchase.

Betty Gaydos, owner of Gaydos Farms in Atascosa County, is just one of the growers on hand to answer questions and make suggestions. Gaydos and her brothers run the family farm and have been a presence at the Dallas market for years. "It's a tough road," said Gaydos. "But it has to be done."

When heading to any farmers market go with an empty stomach and be sure to ask for samples. More often than not growers will offer long before shoppers have a chance to ask.

The Austin area provides fresh produce lovers with seven area markets, all of which accept Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) coupons. The market on Burnet Road boasts vine ripe Texas-only produce including fresh peaches from Mexia and tomatoes that actually taste like Mother Nature intended! "The weekends get real busy," said Frank Webb, owner of Webb Farms. "Get here early."

No need to worry about lunch. If the samples of fruits and vegetables have not satiated the stomach, pick up some barbecue from the cafe located on site. Public restrooms are available and a shaded patio with tables and chairs provides a cool place to relax.

The market at Courthouse Square in Georgetown has been in existence "as long as anyone can remember," said one shopper. During peak season the market opens each Thursday promptly at 3:30 p.m. when Bill Gardner, market manager, gives the sell signal. Not a dime can be exchanged until then.

Get to this market early because lines form at every stall and the freshest produce is sold out in no time. All vendors at the Georgetown market are required to be local growers.

This is an event in Georgetown and everyone comes to enjoy the fresh produce, make their weekly purchases and chat with their neighbors. Even the Georgetown animal shelter is on hand with adoptable pets.

Before heading out to a market doing some research is a good idea. The days and hours of operation vary from market to market and season to season.

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) web site:

(www.agr.state.tx.us/events/farmersmarket.htm)

offers an extensive list of markets in Texas, but the information is not set in stone. Calling first is a good idea.

Shopping at farmers markets can be rewarding not only because of the great products available at reasonable prices, but the knowledge that the Texas agriculture industry is being supported. This industry is vital to the Texas economy and according to the TDA one in five Texans is employed in some aspect of agriculture.