When most people think of the beginnings of Vail, they often picture the time when President Gerald R. Ford made the area his second home, bringing national attention to this scenic mountain town. However, the story of Vail and its surrounding communities stretches back far beyond those days of presidential visits.
Long before Vail became synonymous with world-class skiing and luxury, this land was home to farmers, ranchers, and before them, Indigenous people who cultivated and cherished the fertile soils of the Western Slope. These early stewards of the land understood its value, nurtured its potential, and laid the groundwork for the vibrant agricultural traditions that continue to thrive today. At The Community Market, we honor this rich history by working with local farms to bring the bounty of the Western Slope to the over 6,000 community members we serve each week.
Our partnerships with farms like Okagawa Farms in Orchard Mesa, Juicy Acres in Palisade, and LaVenture Farm in Gypsum are at the heart of our mission to provide fresh, local produce to our community. These collaborations allow us to source a diverse array of fruits and vegetables that are not only fresher but also more flavorful and nutritious than produce that has traveled thousands of miles to reach our tables. The economic impact of shopping locally cannot be overstated.
By purchasing produce directly from these farms, we are investing in the livelihoods of local farmers and strengthening our regional econ.