Mission Monday: Southwest Iowa Farmers Market Guide

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​Our mission at Golden Hills RC&D is to collaboratively develop and lead community, conservation, and cultural initiatives to improve our quality of life in rural western Iowa. Our "official" territory from our original organizational bylaws is an eight-county region in the southwestern portion of Iowa (Cass, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie, and Shelby). In 2023, we added four more counties (Audubon, Carroll, Crawford, and Monona). Several projects extend beyond these 12 counties into more than 20 counties (learn more about where we work). ​

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Our goals are to develop industries in local communities that utilize local resources; ensure healthy natural resources that meet the needs of agriculture, industry, private use, and recreational facilities; promote and enhance art, culture and historic resources in rural communities; collaborate with local governments and organizations on projects that benefit the environment; and work on projects that fill gaps in community services to benefit people of southwest Iowa.

We accomplish these goals by focusing our work in five program areas: outdoor recreation and tourism, land stewardship, water resources, local foods, and arts and culture. Today's Mission Monday focus is Local Foods.

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The 2024 farmers market season is here! We have updated our Southwest Iowa Farmers Market Guide to include new markets and updated dates, hours, and locations. The guide covers eight counties in southwest Iowa that are part of the Southwest Iowa Food and Farm Initiative (SWIFFI).

New markets this year include the once monthly Crescent Farmers Market, Red Oak Market at Montgomery Hospital, and The Mill in Shenandoah. Additionally, 2024 sees the return of a farmers market in Sidney!

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In Southwest Iowa, farmers markets are vibrant hubs of community activity, where locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate the region's agricultural bounty. These markets, often nestled amidst picturesque rural landscapes, offer a delightful assortment of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. From crisp sweet corn to juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs, the seasonal offerings showcase the rich diversity of Iowa's fertile lands.

Visiting a farmers market in Southwest Iowa is more than just a shopping trip; it's an opportunity to connect directly with the hardworking farmers and producers who nurture the land. Conversations flow freely as shoppers chat with vendors about sustainable farming practices, heirloom varieties, and favorite recipes. There's a sense of camaraderie as everyone comes together to support local agriculture and savor the flavors of the season.

Beyond the stalls of fruits and vegetables, Southwest Iowa farmers markets often feature live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere that's enjoyed by all ages. Whether you're stocking up on groceries for the week or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, a visit to one of these markets is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the rural heritage and culinary treasures of Southwest Iowa.

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