Why Outdoor Farmers’ Markets Matter More Than Ever

Usually, a space for recreation and socializing, outdoor markets in New York are adopting new guidelines due to COVID-19 in order to continue serving their communities. 

New safety measures taken include

• Only allowing a certain number of people into the market at a time
• Shoppers cannot touch the produce 
• Shoppers must practice physical distancing of 6 ft (2 meters)
• Tables must have plastic covering and workers must wear protective gear

As organizations adapted to the new set of guidelines, a few opted to miss attending the market in order to prepare their staff with safety gear. There is also some adjustment on the shopper’s side as people are used to smelling and touching the produce but according to the article, they have adapted quickly and are willing to take the risk in order to continue supporting their local market. 

The article notes that outdoor markets are more important than ever as many people feel safer at the outdoor markets than at the grocery store. 

It is important that there is cooperation and communication between both shoppers and vendors in order to protect everyone’s safety and ensure the markets can remain open. 

For the full article visit https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/01/nyregion/coronavirus-greenmarkets-nyc.html?action=click&module=News&pgtype=Homepage