One of the joys of owning a country home in the Hudson Valley is getting out to partake in the various local activities. These experiences add value and joy to home owning here. Over the next few weeks I will highlight several of these. The first that comes to mind are the various Farmers’ Markets that have developed over the past few years. Some are open twice a week, but almost all are open Saturday mornings.

Here in Pawling, the program is only a few years old, but it provides a good selection of both organic and non-organic produce, baked goods, preserves, dairy, flowers, plants and even wine. Let us start a tour and give you a brief description of what is there. Starting at the north end of the market you will find Brine Garden and Horticultural Consultants, Inc. Owners Duncan and Julia Brine have been written up in several magazines. Their website, gardenlarge.com contains an excellent description as well as a listing of upcoming tours.

The next booth is manned by Laetitia Ganam of 3 Petites Madeleines. Laetitia is a home baker who brings her creations to this market, as well as the Arlington Farmers’ Market.

At the next booth Mountain Produce Smokehouse features locally hardwood smoked cheeses and meats. After trying a sample I doubt you will go home empty-handed! Once you discover this provider you do not have to wait until the next market day. Visit their website: mountainproductssmokehouse.com or stop by their in-house store.

Prospect Hill Orchards from Milton, NY is next. They feature freshly picked fruits and homemade jams. You may even decide to take a ride to the orchard and pick the fruit yourself – this weekend peaches and nectarines are available.

Wild Hive Farm is the next booth on our tour. There you will find locally grown grains that they have just milled, as well as baked goods using these products. Wild Hive Farm was recently featured in the Wednesday Dining In/Dining Out section of the New York Times, as well as having their baked goods selected for the “goodie bags” distributed at Chelsea Clinton’s wedding.

This is only half of the market, and my shopping bag is full. Stay tuned for the second half of this great food experience.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler