Local, local, local is the only way to go at this time of year. Raspberries and blueberries from the Fraser Valley as well as local early nugget potatoes from Pemberton signal the beginning of our local fresh produce season. Every year I am astounded at the quality and variety of the products that British Columbia farmers grow and ship to local grocery stores.

To me, farming has always seemed to be a perplexing way to make a living. Firstly, farmers trust that the crops they plant will receive enough beneficial weather to mature. Secondly, they hope that the markets they sell those crops into will pay them enough to cover their costs and provide a little profit. The whole process is a little too uncertain for me. However, I am incredibly glad that our farming community steps up every year and takes those risks.

Given that our farmers grow some of the finest products anywhere it occurs to me that we should honour their labours and purchase locally grown product. When you are next in one of our stores look for “BC Grown” signs to be assured you are buying locally. Let’s hope the weather is good this growing season and our farmers’ harvests are bountiful.

Mark Vickars
CEO, Choices Markets Ltd.