Reviving the Bedford Farmers’ Market – Has the Time Come?

Compiled by The Bedford Citizen

Many people have expressed sadness that the Bedford Farmers’ Market is no longer active. A group of residents who were instrumental in bringing the Market into being are reaching out to the community for input and advice about a potential future for the Market.

Barbara Purchia said, “The weekly and one-day markets brought out the best of Bedford; the great volunteers, wonderful children’s events,  super entertainment, a sense of community, and of course fabulous farmers and vendors as well as educational programs and special events.” She also noted that the directors loved their time as leaders, although they were discouraged by the lack of an on-going successful market.

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The Market’s dissolution was due to less-than-robust attendance and sales over the four years of its existence, coupled with the start of the Billerica Farmers’ Market on the same market day in 2011.

Bedford’s Market ceased its weekly operation in 2011, then held a very successful one day market during the summer of 2012. The 2012 market was held on a different day (Sunday) and in a more central location (the parking lot at Town Hall on Mudge Way), leading the directors to regroup and plan the next steps.

Although there has not been an active market in Bedford since 2012, the organization awarded Bedford Citizens Scholarship Foundation scholarships in 2014 and 2015 and intends to continue to do so.

The Bedford Farmers’ Market mission is:

• to provide members of the community a place to purchase fresh, locally grown produce
• to provide a place for farmers and producers to directly market their goods
• to educate the community about healthy eating, a healthy environment, and the importance of sustainable agriculture
• to provide a self- sustaining social experience for the Bedford community.

Specifically, the group hopes that residents will consider helping with the following needs:

• Board of Directors:  Working to determine the future of the BFM.  A passion for fresh, local food and the community is needed.
• Education: Finding or offering a class or event in any area related to food or our environment. Although the market isn’t active, we could still work in this area as stated in the BFM mission.
• Publicity: Providing outreach through the media in support of our programs, our website, and  newsletter
• Fund Raising: Working with the community to bring in funds to support our expenses and keep our annual budget in balance.

“If you miss the Market and feel that Bedford needs to restart a farmers’ market,” invites Purchia, “We would love to talk with you.” Purchia, Moira Sarson, Jerry Wolf and Chris Lipson look forward to working in collaboration with others interested in reviving the Market.

Contact Barbara Purchia at [email protected] or 781-275-2464.