Farm Stands: They’re Everywhere!

–photos and story by Cara Russell —

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Some are small, others are very small, and set along the side of the road, and you never know when you will see one around the bend, or up ahead—farm stands. It’s August and on Orcas many gardeners and farmers are putting out their surplus veggies, eggs, flowers, and homemade crafts for sale.

Each farm stand represents the personality of its architect. In a valley, an old armoire stands in the grass, doors wide open, white-washed inside, and holding a small but vibrant collection of flower bouquets. Down the road there’s tall dry grass and ocean air, and a single blue cooler that rests on a short, sun-bleached table, with the smallest of signs that says ‘Fresh Eggs.’

Most farm stands go by the honor system, with a lock box and a notepad. The prices are clearly marked, and stands are stocked either with paper or plastic bags or already bagged goods.

Farm stands signs can be found along all of the main roads, and all stands provide either parking, or a turnoff or driveway. You can often see the garden that is responsible nearby, and if you’re lucky, a brood of chickens will come up to check you out, while you’re checking out the local goods.

Long live farmers, dirt and the fruit of the earth!