Long-time head steps down, replacement sought

By Michael Cobb

Norfolk Farmers Market Manager Lisa Auclair and Market Master Angie Bollard have resigned, leaving both positions open and plans up in the air for next season’s market.

Doug McDevitt, Norfolk Farmers Market co-chair, commends their years of commitment, saying, “These individuals have put their hearts and souls into ensuring the town of Norfolk has a wonderful venue to obtain wholesome produce, unique and locally produced arts and crafts, music and, most importantly, a setting to gather and socialize with friends and neighbors. The committee will be putting out requests for anyone who would like to step up and fill their shoes.”

Having served for 17 years as the manager of the Norfolk Farmers Market and many years managing Camp Jewell in Colebrook and the Norfolk Country Club, Auclair cites wanting to spend more quality time with her family as her main reason for leaving. “My daughter is looking to go to college next year, and I want to make sure I have time to help her get situated in whatever she chooses to pursue,” she says.

The manager role is a paid position and involves, among other things, working with food vendors and craft booths and coordinating events such as live music.

“The challenge going forward is creating a marketplace that fits the needs of the community,” says Auclair. “When we started, there were fewer markets in our state, so it was easier to attract more vendors and shoppers. The number of options has grown significantly, and now we compete with larger markets, farm stores and farm stands.”

Auclair explains that “What has drawn vendors to our market year after year has been our consistent attention to detail. We care a lot about our vendors. After all, that is who we do this for. We are organized and we are flexible, and this makes our vendors happy to attend and happy to recommend us to other vendors. Our biggest challenge is maintaining the customer base.”

In addition to providing a place for produce and community, the Norfolk Farmers Market gives back with “Market Bucks,” donated funds that can be used to purchase market food items. Bollard says that “Although we were unable to do so this year, we normally donate Market Bucks to those in need. They can come to the market and buy food. Over the years, we have donated thousands of dollars in gift certificates to our local churches, food pantry and town hall to distribute for use at the market and at local participating farms.”

Indicators like healthy annual donation levels and a strong social media following make it clear that there is keen community interest in having the farmers market continue. While it may be hard to imagine a Norfolk Saturday with no tents or music, without a market manager and a market master, the future of the Norfolk Farmers Market is uncertain.

Auclair describes what’s needed to keep it going: “A well-functioning farmers market is one that is continually attended and purchased from. It doesn’t have to be the largest or on a main roadway. If there are a good variety of products and people continually supporting [the vendors], then that is the synergy that will allow for the future of this market. The biggest challenge for the next generation of market organizers is to continue offering a well-organized marketplace.” The rest, she says, “is up to the customers.”

In addition to managing the Norfolk Farmers Market, Auclair has been instrumental in overseeing the community garden behind Botelle School and is excited to continue her work there. “Raised beds will be available for growing and I hope that more of the community becomes involved,” she says.

Finally, Auclair wants the public to know that although market season is over, the annual holiday fair will still be held at the Battell Chapel in Norfolk on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Anyone interested in learning more about the two open positions with the farmer’s market should contact Auclair directly at lisaauclair@sbcglobal.net.