CSA event held at the Menomonie Market

By Kyra Price

Menomonie Market: the location of the 6th annual CSA Fair, photo taken by Kyra Price

Now that spring has begun, we start to think of gardening. Earlier this month many gathered to start to learn about some local growers. The Community Supported Agriculture Fair was held at the Menomonie Market Food Co-op on Saturday, March 5. This is the sixth year of the event.

Inside the market there were separate booths set up around the store. Farmer of Racing Heart Farm located in Colfax, Les Macare said they grow all sorts of vegetables using the no till technique.

“It minimizes soil distribution,” said Macare. The no till technique helps circulate nutrients. “Healthier soil means healthier vegetables.”

It is Racing Heart Farm’s ninth growing season. Macare said all the hard work is worth it.

“There is no better flavor enhancer than knowing where your food comes from,” they said.

A list of crops grown during each season were available for pickup at each stand.

Promoter and delivery person for Wagon Wheel Gardens located in Woodville, Monica Zignego said buyers enjoy the wide variety of fresh, in-season produce available.

“When blueberries are in season, they are really popular,” she said.

Zignego said they use all organic based fertilizer to grow fresher produce. Wagon Wheel Gardens has been participating in the annual CSA Fair for 8 years now.

To learn more about how to get involved with the local CSA fair and other community events visit https://www.mmfc.coop/calendar/.

The Menomonie Market Food Co-op is located at 814 Main Street E.