Tlell Farmers’ Market

The Tlell Farmers' Market began as a vision of a group of local farmers and citizens several years ago. They desired to create a place where Haida Gwaii food producers and crafters could sell their wares directly to the public and to emphasize the benefits of buying local goods and eating foods grown and produced close to home. The group began making plans and applying for grants and, with the help of the Graham Island East Coast Farmers' Institute, finally saw the market come to fruition in 2012. It even has its own permanent facility, making it quick and easy for vendors to set up and take down their products each week.

Elizabeth Condrotte of the Graham Island East Coast Farmers' Institute was one of the early visionaries for the market. She helped to oversee its implementation in 2012 and actively participated in the market, both as a leader and as a vendor. She is pleased with the response that the market has received, both from the vendors and from the community members who frequent it regularly. Visitors appreciate being able to buy just-picked, grown-on-Haida Gwaii produce and other farm products like fresh eggs and goat's milk soap and cheese. Jams and jellies are another popular offering at the market, many made with local berries. The market also puts together a successful "Last Minute Christmas Craft Fair" the week before Christmas, 2013 and organizers hope to make it an annual event.

An accident forced Elizabeth to step back from the market for a season, and another local farmer, Marylynn Hunt stepped into the role of coordinator. Marylynn has been actively involved in the market since it began and is also one of its regular vendors. The two are excited about the market's potential for future growth. They also hope to generate some revenue through facility rentals and through the on-site dry and cold storage facility that is available to the public.