Guess who’s back? 
The farmer’s market that was featured outside on campus in the fall is back and better than ever for the spring semester with longer hours. Starting on March 23 and happening every Monday until May 4, the market will run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. It will be located at the same location as last semester, which is near the clock tower or between Wittich and Centennial halls.
The farmer’s market features local vendors specializing in fruits, vegetables, flowers, and much more. Some vendors can take cards but cash is preferred. Bring your friends, bring your roommates, bring anyone you know!
What’s the benefit of the market? According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the number of farmers markets in the U.S. has doubled in the last five years increasing from 4,685 in 2008 to 8,144 in 2013. You can stock up on groceries while shopping local. The average produce in the United States has traveled thousands of miles and for many days since it was picked. This lag time between the farm and the consumer results in lost nutrients, as well as added carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption from shipping the produce. In addition to being fresher and having more nutrients, farmer’s markets allow you to mix up your diet by trying many different foods you might not regularly be exposed to. By shopping local, you can eat fresher food that also helps stimulate our local economy by supporting area farmers and businesses.
The farmer’s market is put on by Students for Sustainability and our organization is always looking for people to get involved.  If you have ideas about how to improve sustainability on our campus feel free to contact us at [email protected], or come to a meeting. As always, our meetings are on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in Centennial 2214.

Hope to see you at the market!

What’s Happening:
Students for Sustainability Meetings -Tuesdays, 7 p.m, 2214 Centennial
The first Spring Farmer’s Market – Monday, March 23, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Outdoor Connection’s Spring Break Adventure Trips – duration of Spring Break
Archaeology/Artifact Show – March 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m, Valley View Mall