Weekly West Wahkiakum Farmers Market starts June 14

The Johnson Park Community Center (former Rosburg school) and the Grays River Grange have come together to sponsor the West Wahkiakum Farmers’ Market. This should prove to be a real boon for Wahkiakum and eastern Pacific County residents offering a plethora of locally grown and produced vegetables, fruits, flowers, culinary mushrooms, eggs, honey, goat soaps and products, herbal remedies, baked goods, woodworking, jewelry, crafts, artwork, and more.

The Market will take place from 2 to 6 pm every Friday from June 14 through October 25. On the first Friday of each month, the Market will be held at the Grays River Grange Hall. On all other Fridays, the Market will take place in the cafeteria room at the Johnson Park Community Center. In addition to the vendors, at Johnson Park on opening day, June 14, the Market will be especially festive with live music by Vancouver’s Allie Childers and light refreshments.

This joint venture, an expanded version of last year’s monthly Farmers’ Market sponsored by the Grays River Grange, is the brainchild of Jamie VanBuhler of Altoona Point Valley. VanBuhler, a published artist and Altoona resident is engaged in agroforestry on her 15-acre forested property. VanBuhler serves on the board for the West Wahkiakum Farmers Market along with Carillon Nicol, Brooke Bennett, Diane Hollenbeck and Kelly Shumar.

“The Johnson Park board has agreed to donate its facilities this year for the farmers market and are eager to get this rolling,” reports VanBuhler. “We are hoping the buzz will bring the community together for a much-needed farmers market in an area where grocery stores lack. We have a growing list of vendors, folks are talking, and news is getting out about the weekly event.”

Denise Blanchard, President of the Board for Johnson Park commented, “I am very excited in having the opportunity to have the West Wahkiakum Farmers Market being held at the Johnson Park. Wishing every vendor a prosperous season.”

“I think the main inspiration among the Grangers for getting the farmers’ market back up and running is carrying on the rich agricultural history of our region, said Market Board member Bennett. “A common thread uniting most of us in this area is the joy of being connected to our land and animals, our food, and our neighbors. The market serves as another opportunity to grow these connections.”

15 to 20 vendors are anticipated for the kickoff event. Vendor tables are free. Those interested in getting on the vendor list for the Market should contact Jamie VanBuhler at altoonapoint@gmail.com.

The Johnson Park Community Center is located at 30 Rosburg School Road, Rosburg, WA 98643. Telephone contact (360) 465-2310. The Grays River Grange Hall is located at 11 S. Hull Creek Road, Grays River, WA 98621. Telephone (360) 465-2268.