The Farmers Market at Forest Park in Springfield is open!
We recently sat down with Jodi-Lyn Manning, the market manager of the Farmers Market at Forest Park. Read on for a peek into what it takes to run a farmers market and more!
Located a stone’s throw from the 700+ acre jewel of Springfield, the Forest Park Farmers Market is home to a variety of fabulous western MA farmers & vendors. Be sure to take advantage of the gorgeous backdrop of one of the largest municipal parks in the country. Designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Forest Park features winding wooded trails, and breathtaking views. Be sure to stroll past and through the zoo, aquatic gardens, and outdoor amphitheater.
The market is open every Tuesday from 12:30pm - 6pm from May 3 through October 25
What market do you run and when did it start? When did you become your market's manager?
[The] Farmers Market at Forest Park, Springfield started in 1998 and I became the Market Manager in 2021. This season, I took on the additional role of managing the Downtown Springfield Farmers Market and 2022 will mark its 6th year anniversary.
What does it take to run your market? What is the "human power" behind it in terms of staff?
Just call me the little engine that could! I took over the Forest Park Farmers Market last year. During these interesting times when we're all short staffed, the market is no exception, and so I find myself wearing many hats at the market. The Farmers Market at Forest Park is also a year-round endeavor. I find myself working with city staff and non-profit partners year-round so that together we can promote the market and create a vibrant, affordable and physically accessible market. If anyone is looking for a job, a paid position, I am looking for an EBT/ Food Access Coordinator. Also, I would welcome volunteers.
What excited you about being part of a farmers market? How long have you been a part of the farmers market community?
I have always tried to be active in my community. The Farmers Market at Forest Park has taken that work to a whole new level. The farmers market is an important resource in my neighbors and so when I heard that they needed a market manager, it felt like a perfect fit.
What was your biggest challenge? What sort of things would you like to see implemented at your market to overcome and combat these challenges?
The Farmers Market at Forest Park has been a part of the community for more than 20 years. But because it has been such a mainstay in the community, community outreach waned. So my current challenge is to bring as many partners to the table so that together we can make the market as successful as possible and as much of a resource to the residents of Springfield.
Is your market sustainable? What makes it sustainable? And if you aren’t there yet, in what ways are you working towards sustainability?
Sustainability is a tricky question. Our market is rain or shine. There's nothing to stop us from setting up the market. However, because we are tucked away in a large city park, our location isn't obvious to everyone that drives by. Our market requires greater promotion and outreach. The challenges that comes with the need to do greater promotion, is the additional resources, both human capital and financial. If you know any organizations, I am looking for sponsors.
What are your favorite parts about running a market? What are some of the challenges you face?
Engaging with the community at large. And with our vendors and thereby learning more about Ag. I love the social aspect, bring diverse people and endeavors together.
If you had 3 wishes, how would you use them to enhance your market or for the greater enhancement of the farmers market industry?
1. To have a dedicated Farmers Market location;
2. To have a full complement of vendors, to have representation from all industries [dairy, meat, fish, produce, plants, honey + honey byproducts, etc. etc.]
3. To help find enough employees to support our vendors
What food item can you not live without? What’s your favorite recipe featuring it, and will you share it?
I cannot live without Sweet Potatoes, Beets and other fabulous root vegetables. Whatever root vegetables I can get my hands on, I'll toss with Olive Oil, Pepper and Sea Salt, and Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes. Roasted veggies are part of almost every meal.