Islanders and tourists who want to buy locally-grown produce fresh from the farm now have all the information they need at their fingertips in the 2005 Fresh Produce Directory.
Every summer the PEI Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture receives numerous calls from Islanders and tourists inquiring about farms which sell directly from the farm gate. As a result of the inquires, the department undertook to compile a list of farmers across the province who are marketing fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, preserves and other products direct from their farm.
In cooperation with the Department of Tourism, a directory listing over 50 farms which sell directly to consumers was circulated in the June 13 issues of The Guardian and The Journal Pioneer. In total, over 34,000 copies of the directory were distributed.
Obtaining fruits and vegetables from local growers helps ensure freshness and quality. In addition, buying direct from the farm provides customers with a chance to find out how products are grown and to talk with the people who produced them. Buying local products also supports the local economy.
Individuals who wish to receive an additional copy of the 2005 Fresh Produce Directory can contact the Agriculture Information Centre at 368-4145. The directory can also be accessed on the web at www.peifarmfresh.ca.