One of my favorite things about attending Portland State University is its location in the hub of downtown Portland. There are so many things to do and see between classes, all within walking distance both on and off campus. One of those activities includes the Farmers Market in the PSU park blocks on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
With the increasing awareness of the dangers in genetically modified foods and the efforts to play our part in reducing our carbon footprints, many of us are turning toward our local farmers for food and plant resources. The Farmers Market is one-stop shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables, garden starts, flowers, honey, jams, meats, eggs, and much more. With this growing knowledge, so grows the Farmer’s Markets across the country, and PSU just happens to host one of the best markets inPortland.
I ventured down this last weekend in search of fruit and vegetables, honey, vegetable starts for my garden, and hanging flowers pots for mother’s day gifts. Despite the on and off rain events, the market was packed with students and local residents.
I chatted with a few PSU students while I waited in various lines, asking how they could afford the higher price of food at the Market on our ever-slimming student budgets. The consensus is in the priority to our health and the meaning behind our purchases. There is a feeling of satisfaction in knowing what we are buying and in supporting local farms. PSU students have this advantage because of the university’s location, and not every college out there can boast that they offer this benefit to students.
Overall, the Farmer’s Market has been an enlightening experience for me. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Market.