DIXFIELD – If people won’t go to the produce, then the produce will come to them.

That’s a major reason why the River Valley Farmers Market was organized this spring, said Anne Marin, one of the four current members.

Now, area residents will have many opportunities to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and baked goods several times a week.

Marin, owner of No View Greenhouses in South Rumford and market master for the new cooperative, said the new farmers’ market, which began last week, is expected to continue into October.

Among the farmers who will offer their homegrown produce are David and Ann Kimball, owners of the Kimball Farm in Rumford Center.

The couple has been selling produce at farmers’ markets for about eight years, first at the Rumford market that is open on Thursdays throughout the growing season, and now at the Saturday farmers market in Bethel. The two have been farming for 37 years.

Ann likes the one-to-one people contact that goes with selling, as does David who is also a logger and the pastor of the Rumford Center Methodist Church. Growing vegetables is a spiritual experience, he said.

“It’s very satisfying. Gardening is a close connection with nature and God. God makes the seed, then we plant and nurture it,” he said.

The Kimballs will offer vegetables grown on their 10-acre plot as they come into season. Peas, a variety of potatoes, beans and more, along with fresh eggs laid by their flock of hens.

What they don’t have, chances are Marin will. Along with vegetables, she grows seedlings and flowers, and has flower baskets and other items. Laurie Ackley of Canton will offer her baked goods, and plans are for a fourth member to sell locally produced maple syrup. Other items may be offered as the new alliance grows.

The market has joined the River Valley Chamber of Commerce. Some of the farmers take WIC vouchers and some will soon be set up to accept food stamps. Those who want to join the new venture may call Marin at 369-9433.

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