A Day in Baker City

The day in Baker City began with a biodiesel demonstration at Agricultural Extension Office. About 20 people were present when Derek gave a talk and demonstration about the sustainable benefits of biodiesel use and production. Randy and Lauren were present with their biodiesel processor to discuss some of the particulars of producing their own biodiesel for use in their diesel vehicles.

Baker City’s Pollman Park becomes more than a children’s playground and hang out spot, twice a week (Thursday s and Saturdays) this quaint city nestled between the Elkhorn and the Wallowa Mountains puts on a wonderful local foods market. On the Thursday evening we joined the market, about a dozen farmers and growers brought their goods to market. Flowers, blackberries, peaches and melons were plentiful amongst the crowd. Potatoes, green beans and onions are also in season in this dry and hot part of Oregon.

Ellie, Baker’s Market Manager said “we get all kinds of folks with all kinds of goods, lots of crafts too, for Saturday market mostly”. The diverse background of Market growers and supporters is phenomenal in Baker. There are urban farmers who are able to grow enough food to partake in the Market each week. They are joined by new time farmers who moved to area for its extended growing season as well as folks whose family history is one and the same with farming in the area.

Ramon and Carolyn, Market board members have been local food promoters in the area for over 30 years.  They started a food co-op out of their basement in the 70’s and have continuously and consistently been engaged in the foods movement including a recent discussion group “localvores” on the importance producing, selling, buying and eating locally. Local was a theme that continued on at the park well past the farmer’s market closing bell. Oregon Rural Action's Baker City Chapter put on a 100-mile potluck dinner to celebrate local foods and renewable energy.

The shared community meal was not only extremely tasty and fresh but it was also educational. Maps and notes of where each ingredient and dish came were present at the serving table. The meal was complete with flowered tablecloths, local flower bouquet center pieces, fresh and tasty salads, casseroles and desserts, and great conversations and company! Thank you Baker City!