Lori and Chris Robson of Chris & Lori's Bakehouse present over $4,000 worth

of DCFM gift certificates to Chris Brockel of the Community

Action Coalition. --Photo by Bill Lubing

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Jeff Ford of Cress Spring Bakery. --Photo by Bill Lubing

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Tory Miller (left) co-owner and executive chef at L'Etoile and Graze restaurants with

John and Dorothy Priske of Fountain Prairie Inn and Farms. --Photo by Bill Lubing

Fountain Prairie Farm

When John and Dorothy Priske bought their farm in 1986 they grew corn and soybeans, a tradition with thousands of Wisconsin farmers. Over the years they raised beef and hogs along with other specialty crops. When two of their dogs died of cancer in quick succession, the couple began to think there had to be a better way to farm.

Through their hard work spanning many years, the corn and soybean fields have evolved into natural prairie and pastures containing high value grasses upon which their Highland cattle thrive. They plugged ditches to restore wetlands long dry and used for crops. Most recently they installed a wind turbine on the farm that generates a substantial portion of the energy needs of the farm, with excess energy being sold back to the utility. 

Today the natural grasses and wild flowers are similar to what would have been found on the prairie 150 years ago. The wetlands are teeming with life, especially during the spring and fall when thousands of sand hill cranes and other birds temporarily call it home. Their animals are content, spending most of their time eating the grasses. The Priskes have created a sustainable environment to be passed down to the next generation.

For this reason the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservaton Association named the couple "Conservation Farmer of the Year."  They were honored by the Columbia County Land & Water Conservation Dept. for this achievement with a luncheon held on their farm on June 13, 2011. The luncheon was prepared by Tory Miller of L'Etoile/Graze Restaurants and featured several speakers, including Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture, Ben Brancel. The Priskes then offered their 150 guests a farm tour.

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Farmer John points out the finer details of cheese curds   [At Saturday's Market on South Carroll St.] --Photo by Bill Lubing

We strive to keep this list as accurate as possible. We probably  missed an item or two that is at the market or listed an item as available when it is not. Chances are not all items mentioned or listed below will be at each market. 

Due to inclement weather, product availability, and other factors, some vendors listed below may need to cancel participation in this week's market.

Spring is "busting out all over" at the Dane County Farmers' Market. We saw broccoli, snap peas, a lot of mint, and strawberries at Wednesday's market, which means even more at this week's market.

Expect to find early season green and purple kohlrabi, basil, kale, and any number of varieties of lettuce. Peas (and pea vines), garlic scapes, and some nice early-season bulbs, are starting to show up while spinach, asparagus, and sorrel are holding their own.  Look for yukina savoy (Chinese cabbage), mustard greens, and plenty of mint, cilantro, and fresh oregano.

In addition to the broccoli mentioned above, several vendors are offering broccoli raab, leeks, and cucumbers. Several vendors are offering delicious new potatoes. 

Of course there's plenty more at the market. Grilling out for Fathers' Day? Check out the many vendors offering meats of all types that go perfect on the grill. Too busy for all of that. Ask your favorite vendor about the best choice for a crock pot or to slow cook in the oven.

And don't forget bakery and cheese from the market. The DCFM offers a huge variety of both, all made locally and sold by the seller!

Potted, dried, hanging, or transplantable, there's plenty to choose from for those who are still planting their gardens.  And for those who'd rather enjoy without the work, check out the large selection of cut flowers at the DCFM. 

To find a vendor or product you can: 1) check the DCFM website or take a leisurely stroll through the market. If you'd like to check with your favorite vendor about product availability, go here, then do a search for contact information. And remember, you can always inquire at the Information Booth, at the corner of North Carroll and West Mifflin streets at the top of State St.