The farmers markets in Hall County are all up and going and are doing quite well even though the weather has been less than ideal. This hot, dry weather has created some challenges for most of the growers, but they are still able to grow vegetables successfully.

There are three markets in Hall County: the oldest, Hall County Farmers Market, on Jesse Jewell Parkway and Interstate 985; the Gainesville Market on the Square; and the Spout Springs Library Market. Each market has seen a good amount of business and each has a different atmosphere for the customer.

All three have a common goal and purpose: All three serve as a link for the farmer and gardener to the general public. They help to promote community spirit and the local economy.

There are very few places where you can talk to the person who made the product you are about to buy.

But with our local farmers markets, the customer meets the grower, asks questions and gets to know the grower as a friend.

Most people go to the farmers market because they like the fact they know the grower. I have seen it time and time again, whether it is in Hall County or in other counties that have a farmers market; every week is a mini-reunion. People become engaged with each other's lives and, before they realize it, they are more part of the community than they ever thought possible.

Farmers markets are also a good way to drive the local economic engine. In many cases, farmers markets allow all of us to create a closed loop system. From start to finish, the money that goes into making the product and the money that is used to purchase it stays in the community. It is a great way to boost our local economy without too much trouble or complication.

The season is just getting started, and over the next few weeks, there should be a variety of produce at each of the markets. Squash, beans, potatoes and cucumbers are all in season now.

Tomatoes and corn should be coming in over the next week or so, and cantaloupe and watermelons will not be too far behind.

If you have not been to one of the markets, be sure to get out and see what they are all about. Visit www.hallfarmers.org to see which day each market is open.