Barbara Latkowki
Caledonia Courier
Beyond the Market continues to celebrate the success of small farms in northern B.C. and the people who support them.
On its fifth anniversary, Beyond the Market held an event in Fort St. James on March 21.
The celebration was open to all past, present and future participants and partners.
Beyond the Market continues to provide workshops and support to local farmers in Fort St. James and surrounding areas.
It is based on an economic development strategy that supports local food and agriculture across the B.C. Highway 16 region. It has been running since 2010 by Community Futures Fraser Fort George.
The event brought out about 10 community members.
Fort St. James Councillor, Brenda Gouglas, was one of those in attendance.
“We have a solid base here in Fort St. James in a smaller farming community. It’s a tight knit little group and it was good to see everyone come together. These members have been participating since Beyond the Market began.”
Gouglas who is no stranger herself to gardening was happy to attend and meet with Beyond the Market for the first time.
“I’ve always gardened. My grandson grew up in Grandma’s garden.”
In the past, workshops about low-cost technologies have been offered to farm and food businesses in Fort St. James.
Coordinator, Jillian Merrick says that it’s all about growing a sustainable business from the farm.
“Many small business owners lack good business planning so we try to help them with being more strategic allowing for better income opportunities in the end,” Merrick said.
Merrick will soon be moving on from her role at Beyond the Market.
The event in Fort St. James gave everyone an opportunity to meet new coordinator, Christine Kinnie.
For more information regarding Beyond the Market visit: beyondthemarket.ca