Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market set up at MCLA.

BUSINESS PERSPECTIVES: Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market Pilot is Rolling

“This partnership with Hudson River Foundation allows the Bard Center for Environmental Science and Humanities to strengthen its commitment to using science as a tool for environmental and social change,” said Elias Deuker.

Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market Pilot is Rolling

Berkshire— The Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market, a partnership project among Berkshire Grown, Berkshire Bounty, CHP, Berkshire United Way, BRPC, and the Rural Health Network, has reached the halfway point of its 10-week pilot season.

MCLA volunteers Vivi and Kaiya.

Since the September launch, the mobile market has made weekly visits to MCLA in North Adams, 18 Degrees in Pittsfield, and the Becket Town Hall. Attendance has exceeded expectations—the market has served over 400 shoppers, procured over $8,500 worth of local food from farmers and producers, and distributed over half of that food at no cost.

Market Manager Alyssa VanDurme sources fresh food from area farmers each week, and the arrival of fall has brought a rainbow of variety to the market. Purple bell peppers, leafy greens, deep orange squash and sweet potatoes are just a few of the recent offerings. Other popular items include feta and cheddar cheese, sourdough bread, eggs, meat, honey and maple syrup—all from local producers.

Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market set up at MCLA.

The Berkshire Mobile Farmers Market will continue its pilot season through November 16th. The market team will spend the winter analyzing data and feedback from the pilot and planning the full season launch in the spring.

The mobile market wouldn’t be possible without community support. Visit www.berkshiremobilefarmersmarket.org to donate, view the schedule, sign up for the newsletter, and to learn more.