I have received a couple of queries asking me to elaborate on some details of my post, so here goes.

As we all know, there are thousands of farmers’ markets across the county. Many of them take place outdoors and under temporary structures such as pop-up tents or even just tables. This type of infrastructure will work OK if it is a sunny, warm day. But even if the weather cooperates, the temporary nature of the structure still poses problems such as the inability to wash fruit on-site. So I really like the idea that has been proposed by the Marin County Civic Center Farmers’ Market: build a permanent tensile structure (a long tent-like awning) that provides some protection from the elements, and also creates a signature locale, a landmark. The MCCC structure (as proposed) would also have permanent utilities installed, so that vendors and patrons had access to running water and permanent bathrooms. One last element to creating a more permanent home is that the designated lot would have proper grading and drainage, thus preventing the spontaneous rushing streams that develop on a rainy day.

Having a more permanent infrastructure with the above elements would reduce the overhead costs and general hassle factor for the vendors (mostly small farmers without a lot of extra capital), and would also make it easier for the market administrators. I think having some provisions against inclement weather would also possibly extend the farmers market season.

I really like the MCCC concept because a tensile structure with only a roof, so it will still preserve the feeling of an open-air market. I think it would be something like this: http://tinyurl.com/kuc348.

So, in the end, I’m not suggesting building a brick-and-mortar building (although those are always a nice option as well. See San Francisco Ferry Building.) I just want the farmers’ markets to be imbued with the dignity they so deserve.

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