After years of near starts, debate and hard work, Jasper’s Farmer’s Market is finally set to open next week.

Fifteen vendors are scheduled to begin selling vegetables and artwork in the Legion parking lot on July 14, and will continue to do so every Wednesday until the end of August.

Lori Rissling-Wynn, a member of the local food society executive said many members of the community came together to transform the idea of a farmer’s market into reality.

“It was identified in the community sustainability plan, and there’s been lots of expressed interest in the creation of a farmer’s market,” Rissling-Wynn said. 

“That gelled with the creation of the local food society.”

Between 10 and 12 vendors will come to the market from the Robson Valley, selling fresh seasonal vegetables. At this time of year, that will include greens such as lettuce, spinach, swiss chard as well as several herbs. 

“The Robson Valley growers are gung-ho,” Rissling-Wynn said.

The farmers market wasn’t launched until July 14 to compensate for the slow growing season this year. 

Rissling-Wynn said the market will be patterned after the community gardens, beginning with modest ambitions that will hopefully expand over time. She is unsure if vegetables from the community gardens will be sold at the farmer’s market.

The Local Food Society has secured a business licence from the municipality, and Rissling-Wynn said she’s heard no opposition to the plan thus far.  The farmer’s market is an effort in community growing, she said, and she’d like local musicians to play as well.

The market is still looking for more vendors, and has had discussions to attract vendors from the Hinton Farmer’s Market. However Rissling-Wynn said many Hinton vendors come from Edson and Spruce Grove every Wednesday, and an extra trip to Jasper may not be feasible. They are still welcome, she said, however at this time, there is no set number of booths for the market.

The farmer’s market is scheduled to run between noon and 3 p.m. every Wednesday in the Legion parking lot. Those interested in setting up shop can contact Rissling-Wynn at 780-852-3674.