Poulsbo Farmers Market: Somebody's got to be No. 1

POULSBO — Just six years old, the Poulsbo Farmers Market is going out for a big distinction: America’s Best Farmers Market.

And those involved hope to nab the title with a little help from market shoppers right here in Poulsbo.

“It is unusual for a market of our size to have most of our farmers come from less than 10 miles from the market site,” said Annie Eissler, PFM board member. “This proximity impacts the freshness of the produce available at the market and the ability to really get to know the farmers. Our farmers are a part of our community — you can easily go and visit them on their farm if you want.”

PFM, located Saturdays in April through October at the corner of Seventh Avenue and Iverson Street, has grown to more than 50 vendors since its launch in 2004. Now it joins more than 600 markets nationwide in an American Farmland Trust competition. Three markets, small, medium and large-sized, will be honored as the country’s best. PFM is entered in the medium-sized market category.

“We are thrilled that the American Farmland Trust is encouraging consumers to consider the importance of farmland and to support local farmers,” said Jackie Aitchison, market manager of the Poulsbo Farmers Market, in a prepared statement.

The AFT, founded in 1980, works to save farmland through state and local policy. According to its Web site, 1.2 million acres of farmland are lost in the United States each year. Winning markets will receive a free No Farms No Food tote bag giveaway for their customers.

“Our market emphasizes fresh produce while also offering local families a fun, affordable outing to hear local music, get something to eat and learn about preparing local produce through our chef demo programs,” Eissler said. “We regularly hear from customers, vendors and musicians that the Poulsbo Farmers Market is their favorite market. They appreciate the market’s broad range of products and unique community spirit.”