HV farmers issue 2008 Farm Trail map

FRUIT ROUTE
The Happy Valley Farm Trail map illustrates various farms in the south county that sell produce and crafts directly to customers.

Ensuring that North State residents won’t have to blaze their own way to finding fresh picked produce, 46 Happy Valley farmers and crafters have banded together for the 2008 installment of the Happy Valley Farm Trail map.

The map lists the 46 members, what they grow, and where they’re located. Phone numbers are also included. The free maps are available at numerous businesses in Happy Valley. In Anderson, the maps can be found at the Valley Post, 2676 Gateway Dr.; in Cottonwood at Quilts in the Attic, 20833 Front St., and in Redding at Graphic Emporium, 1525 Pine St.

“Always call before going to the farms,” Farm Trail organizer Johanna Trenerry said, adding that the farmers often have other things for sale, such as herbs, that are not advertised.

As to what produce was ripe, as of June 27 Trenerry said “squash is on like crazy.”

Elma Acres and Saelee Farm both have onions. The Double “W” Ranch has string beans and Don Weaver has red grapefruit. Trenerry said it is still early for tomatoes; although some farmers may have some, she said, as deer ate her early tomatoes.

This year the Farm Trail welcomed nine new members. Trenerry said she has already heard from people who want to join the group next year, too.