The north state growing season is ramping up and  area residents will soon have access to the bounty of the  Mt. Shasta Farmers Market.
Beginning Monday June 8, the market will be open for what is now its 10th season of operation. 
“It has really grown into a market of integrity,” said founder and current director Kirsten Olson, who noted that this year will see some exciting additions, including   new sellers, a “market booth” to distribute information about farms, agriculture and the food system, and a table  allocated to  local non-profits to present their information.
“We’re trying to make the market more of an opportunity for the exchange of information,” noted Olson, who elaborated on what she feels are the many important contributions that it makes to the community.
“The market can really be a vibrant social time,” she said, as many of the regulars enjoy the opportunity to catch up with friends and neighbors as they shop. 
“It’s become such a great community gathering place,” she added.
Commemorative poster
As part of the market’s ten year celebration, local artist Gail Domanski has created a commemorative poster, which can be purchased at the market booth.
“Gail’s painting really captures the vibrancy of the market,” explained Olson, who added that raffle tickets are also on sale for a full size  commemorative print of the image. The winner will be chosen at this year’s harvest celebration dinner, with the proceeds going to Heifer International, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture and combatting hunger world wide.
New booths
Market visitors will be able to purchase Shasta Valley grass-fed USDA beef, lamb and chicken, as well as hand crafted goat cheese from Shasta County.
Also present will be many of the market’s long standing favorites, including Pierce Family Farm, Mountain Home Farm, Hunter Orchards and the Oven Bakery, to name just a few.
“We really have a great group of dedicated growers that pick and grow exclusively for this market,” said Olsen, adding that the Market is certified and that this designation guarantees that all of the produce comes directly from farms. 
“California has a well developed system that is designed to protect growers,” said Olson. “The state is really unique in that way.”
Olson reflected on the fact that many people do not realize the amount of organization and planning that goes into the market, not to mention the paperwork.  
She said each grower is required to submit an application and must be approved.  By maintaining high standards, the market is able to thrive as a genuine farmers market.   
No spaces are left for the Monday market, but the Thursday market, which begins on July 9, still has some available space.
Ten years and running
In outlining the ten year history, Olson remarked that getting the market started was a long and oftentimes arduous process. “Our first year, I thought we were going to fail. We had a drought and a huge crop loss that season.”
Things have, however, stabilized. “We have struggled but now its seems that we have a solid base.”
The market is held on Mondays between 3:30 and  6 p.m. on North Mt. Shasta Blvd., between Castle and Alma Streets.  
For more information,   contact Kirsten Olson at 436-2532.