WATSONVILLE—Farmers markets around the county continue to operate through the COVID-19 crisis since they are deemed essential businesses.
Though some of the markets have pared down their offerings, eliminating things such as flowers, nursery goods, some prepared foods and entertainment, the outdoor venues still play a vital role in getting healthy food to the community.
Jesus Madrigal, who heads up Watsonville’s market, said the Friday venue has been reduced to five produce and five prepared foods stands. That has trimmed the market to take place only on Peck Street beside Watsonville City Plaza. While only one vendor still offers live orchids, Madrigal said he’s making efforts to brings flower sellers back into the mix.
“Yes, we’re smaller, but we’re still here and we’re open to changes as we move into this,” Madrigal said.
He urged shoppers to be keenly aware of the six-foot social distancing rule, especially when lining up to pay.
“This Friday we are happy to announce a $20 match for shoppers, thanks to CalFresh,” Madrigal said. “If you spend at least $20, CalFresh will match it.”
Kim Tush, who sells her homemade vinegar products at her Santa Cruz Balsamics table at numerous farmers markets, said she is excited to see the first-ever farmers market coming soon to Moss Landing.
The market is aiming to open around the end of May on the west side of Highway 1 opposite the “smokestacks.”
Spearheading the project, Tush said she has cleared most of the red tape and has rounded up a wealth of vendors who are anxious to sell at the new spot.
The Santa Cruz Community Farmers Market continues to operate in five locations: downtown Santa Cruz, Felton, Live Oak, Westside and Scotts Valley.
“We are paying close attention to the COVID-19 outbreak – following public health guidelines and establishing new systems at our markets with community health and safety as our central goal,” their website reads. “The markets are essential food outlets.”
The Santa Cruz markets have been around for 25 years and typically showcase regional organic produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs and dairy, sustainably harvested seafood and artisan-made goods.
Additionally, the Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College continues to run hours at the campus each Saturday.
Heidi Rhodes, co-owner of H&H Fresh Fish in the Santa Cruz Harbor, said her business offers various fish at a wealth of farmers markets.
“We have a lot of choices for shoppers at downtown Santa Cruz, Live Oak, Cabrillo College and the Westside markets,” she said. “The first couple weeks were challenging, but we are seeing some good signs.”
Rhodes said more and more efforts are being made to ensure shoppers are safe and feel comfortable such as credit card swipes that don’t need signatures and six-foot line stripes on the pavement.
“We use plenty of hand sanitizers and our staff are constantly cleaning surfaces,” she said. “It’s an adjustment for everybody.”
