Farm-To-Table Movement Grows Here
There is plenty in store for Fulton County residents who want to support local farmers.
Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market opened in August 2009 in downtown Gloversville, across from the Glove Theatre. The grocery store features fresh items that are locally produced.
“Area farmers supply us with fruits and vegetables as well as items such as maple syrup, honey and dairy from four local creameries,” says Chris Curro, manager of Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market. “We even have a local coffee roaster that provides us with fresh selections. This market is giving the community local foods that they might not be able to find elsewhere, including quite a few gourmet brands.”
Curro says several of the products sold are organic, plus area herdsmen supply meats such as beef, veal, lamb, pork and chicken.
“Our prices are very reasonable,” he says. “For example, we are cheaper than any other local stores with our flour prices, wheat germ, oats, dried fruit, nuts and so forth. Our dairy is a little higher, but that allows us to give more money back to the local dairy farmers.”
Mohawk Harvest accepts memberships for a one-time, lifetime fee of $150, and that fee gives the members occasional special discounts. For example, in October 2009 members received 5 percent off any organic products.
“We want memberships and currently have about 200 of them, but the store is also open to everyone in the general public,” Curro says. “If you want a gallon of milk, just walk in and purchase it. We are a grocery store for the entire community.”
Curro adds that the market is ideal for farmers who might sell one day a week at a farmer’s market, then can also sell their goods at Mohawk Harvest.
“We are open Monday through Saturday,” he says. “It’s a great way for local foods to get onto local tables.”
Story by Kevin Litwin
