The Old Forge Farmers’ Market was among nine Herkimer County markets recognized by Herkimer County HeathNet at a reception that was held Friday, March 7 at Francesca’s Banquets in Ilion.
Herkimer County HealthNet has implemented the Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work & Play initiative, which supports healthy lifestyle and nutrition options for county residents.
This program has been instrumental in supporting playground and trails projects across the county, including support locally for the Maple Ridge and McCauley Trail as well the waterfront pirate ship playground, as well as publishing the popular Herkimer County Trails Guide.
The Old Forge market is the largest by attendance in Herkimer County and has become a social and economic driver for the community each summer.
During 2013, the Old Forge Farmers’ Market, administered by CAP-21, was able to donate $2,000 to assist our local food pantries, as well as provide additional nutrition support through food pantry coupons and the NYS Supplemental Nutrition Assist-ance Program (SNAP).
The market also initiated a regional artisan program that assisted eight budding entrepreneurs in developing and expanding their business by their presence at the market.
The market also provides an on-going forum for community non-profits to educate and fundraise.
The Old Forge Market will kick off its 7th season on Friday, June 27th and run 16 weeks through October 10th.
CAP-21 is receiving inquiries from new market vendors and we also have plans to continue and expand the artisan program.
It will eventually be growing season, so stay tuned for more information and get ready to greet the market co-managers, Reed and Barbara Proper.
