Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The 2016 season of the Yellowknife Farmers Market kicked off its fourth season last week at Sombe K'e Park, in the heart of my riding. The market is an economic, social and environmental marvel that all Yellowknifers can be proud of. Here are the top 10 things you need to know about it.
1. The Farmers Market has an impact of up to $1 million in the City of Yellowknife because vendors purchase locally.
2. Fifty-seven vendors are taking part this year, half of them new.
3. There are vendors selling food harvested in the wild, produce and preserves, as well as food that's ready to eat. There are also 17 Artisanal sellers.
4. This year, vendors are arrayed across the park lawns, reducing congestion at start time.
5. A major Compost & Waste Reduction Program, funded by ENR, makes it mandatory for vendors to use compostable containers and utensils.
6. A grant from the NWT Arts Council is bringing back Music at the Market performances for seven weeks and a partnership with Northern News Services provides a weekly map and list of vendors in the Friday Yellowknifer.
7. A City of Yellowknife Sponsorship Grant provided funding for operational expenses. The City continues to provide in-kind help through supplying an organic waste bin on site, use of public washrooms, access to drinking water, a children's activity table and garbage collection.
8. The Farmers Market continues to offer tables for community organizations wanting to promote their programming.
9. The Farmers Market continues to work on the development of a just and sustainable food system through the Yellowknife Food Charter.
And most importantly of all,
10. The Farmers Market runs every Tuesday right through to September 20th.I'll see you there in the heart of Yellowknife at the market.
Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.