WILMINGTON — The Clinton Country Farmers Market is pleased to announce that its 21st Summer Market season will open on May 30 and beheld every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Ohio farmers markets have been designated as “essential businesses” since they provide access to fresh food to communities. Like all reopening businesses and other farmers markets in the region, the Clinton County Farmers Market is required to make changes in order to ensure the safety of our customers and vendors during the COVID-19 crisis.

The first change will be the temporary relocation of the market to the Clinton Country Fairgrounds in Wilmington. This location will allow for better social distancing of customers and vendors and for a new option of pre-ordering/drive-through shopping.

Plans are for the market will move back to Mulberry Street when social distancing recommendations are lessened

To enable safer traffic control, customers are requested to only enter and exit via the Main Street entrance of the Fairgrounds. Market staff will be present to welcome customers and direct them to appropriate parking locations.

The second change being announced is the market will serve both “walk-up” and “pre-ordering /drive through” customers.

Walk-up customers will be asked to park as instructed by market staff and to observe appropriate social distancing at each vendor’s booth and in the immediate area around the “walkup-in” area of the market.

Walk-up customers may shop at the vendors’ booths. Customers will inform the vendor of the product they wish to purchase. Vendors will then select and bag the items without direct handling of products by customers.

For customers who wish to pre-order from the vendors, customers will pick up their orders from vendors either at the “walk-up” area of the market or in the “pick-up” only section. Market staff will direct customers to the appropriate location.

Some vendors will be offering pre-order/pick-up option only and no “walk-up” purchases. Customers ordering from these vendors will be directed to the pick-up only area of market.

Customers selecting this option will not need to leave their vehicle but have purchased items placed in the vehicle’s trunk or back seat by the vendor.

Starting May 23, customers who chose pre-ordering may order products directly from vendors during the week prior to each Saturday market. Those wishing to pre-order will find vendor

contact information, products offered, directions regarding when an order must be placed, and payment methods accepted at www.clintoncountyfarmersmarket.com.

Sally Buchanan, Manager of the Clinton County Farmers Market, recognizes that “there’s been a social aspect to the market; it’s always had the atmosphere of a gathering place of friends and neighbors.”

Unfortunately, because of the restrictions that now limit social gatherings; the market will not be able to offer its usual live music, special kids events, food demonstrations and sampling, or special recognition days or programs.

Buchanan is hopeful, however, that the market will be able to offer special activities as soon as conditions allow.

During the time of transition, Buchanan asks for everyone’s patience and understanding as necessary changes are initiated. These changes are required but are still difficult for everyone.

General safety guidelines have been established based on recommendations from the Ohio Farmers Market Network and health officials.

All customers are asked to follow these basis recommendations when coming to the market:

1. If you are not feeling well, please stay home from the market.

2. Customers are encouraged to wear face covering while at the market. Of Note: All vendors, staff, and volunteers will be required to wear face coverings and practice hand hygiene after each transaction with a customer. 3.

Please observe social distancing while at any of the vendors’ booths and in the immediate area around the walk-in area of the market.

4. Please drive safely while moving through the market parking areas.

The Market is an important asset to the citizens of Clinton County and it is pleased to continue serving the community in this its 21st year.

The market wishes to thank all of its faithful customers and vendors, the City of Wilmington, and the Clinton County Fair Board for their support during these trying times.

Please follow the Market on Face book at www.facebook.com/ClintonCountyFarmersMarket .

The market is always interested in new vendors joining the market. For those interested or those with questions regarding the Market, contact Sally Buchanan at [email protected] .