FARMERS OFFER BETTER IDEA FOR MARKETING GOODS

Paul Krautmann has a better idea for marketing his farm products -- community support agriculture (CSA).

"I like knowing that our produce is sold before heading to market," he said.

Krautmann, who grows organic produce on a farm near Hillsboro, started his CSA program seven years ago. He contracts with customers to provide them with fresh, organically-grown vegetables throughout the growing season.

"This week, people are getting garlic, basil, kale, peppers, cucumbers and summer squash among other items," said Krautmann. "And, customers can make changes, or buy more of certain produce."

Meanwhile, farmers markets are still a favorite of many who enjoy fresh farm-grown vegetables and fruits, with more than 75 of them in the state this year. Cape Girardeau will have two markets, including one set to open this weekend at Lowe's Home Improvement Center parking lot.

Krautmann, whose family operates Bellews Creek Farm, said he used to get up at 5 a.m. to pick products to sell at farmers markets. At the end of day, some of the produce went back home with him.

"We didn't know how much we'd sell, so we often overpicked," he said. "This way, we have our customer base, and we pick the produce to fill the orders."

Krautmann likes the CSA system. He sends out a customer letter each week on what produce is available. "If someone wants extra corn, or potatoes, they can special order them," he said.

Krautmann also provides some St. Louis restaurants with his organically-grown products. He delivers the orders to customers each week.

Missouri has a number of CSA programs. It is sort of like a subscription program with memberships generally paid in advance. In effect, the CSA becomes the customers' own private farmer for fresh vegetables and fruit.

The Cape Girardeau Farmers Market has been in operation more than a dozen years at Plaza Galleria parking. The market operates from late March through October each Thursday form 3 to 7 p.m.

The newest farmers market will "officially" kick off Saturday about noon.

"We opened the space to producers last Saturday," said Jon Stahal, assistant manager at Lowe's, which is sponsoring the weekly market along with the University of Missouri Extension office.

Since the event wasn't advertised turnout was low, he said. "We're hoping for a number of sellers and buyers this week."

Additional information on the newest farmers market is available by contacting Stan Murray at 866-2262 or Stahal at 335-6500.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE:

Shoppers at local farmers markets this week should find plenty of summer fruits and vegetables. A sampling of what you find:

-- Peaches

-- Tomatoes

-- Apples

-- Green beans

-- Squash

-- Okra

-- Flowering plants