Social Distancing Working for Farmers Markets

Social Distancing Working for Farmers Markets

Maura Bennett
Maura Bennett

Colorado farmers markets’ early season sales appear to be strong as managers report customers are observing the markets’ COVID-19 precautions.

May:”What I’m hearing are positive reports about markets that not only are people following the protocol and guidelines but that sales are at least steady and it seems to be a good start to the farmers market season.”

Rosalind May is Executive Director of the Colorado Farmers’ Market Association.

May: “People are observing social distancing. The lines are spread out if they need to be. Booths are set up far apart. People are wearing masks. And customers are really delighted to be out shopping in the fresh air even if they’re not allowed to spend a long time at the market socializing. It’s an environment that’s not stressful to do your grocery shopping. I spoke with one market manager over the weekend and she was just over the moon about how it went, that people were so delighted to be there.”

May has not heard about any long waits due to spacing requirements in lines.

And she says the safety guidelines will remain in effect. As the state reopens it will be more important to take precautions.

The state says markets must discontinue activities that encourage people to stay longer such as children’s activities, demonstrations, music and other events.

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