Residents of Norman Wells embraced their first-ever farmers market on August 27 – but not for long.  Within the first two hours of the market all wares, including locally-grown produce, baked goods, and arts and crafts, were sold out!

The strong interest and support was not a surprise. Local food production was a focus in the region over the summer with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) coordinating agriculture workshops in all Sahtu Region communities.

The Norman Wells farmers market welcomed over 300 people and generated approximately $30,000 in sales. The event also featured a dunk-tank, chili cook-off and pie eating contest.

The success of the market and resounding positive feedback means residents can expect to see the market return next year. Meanwhile Tulita will host its first farmers market on September 24 and Fort Good Hope will host an arts and food market in October.

ITI’s sponsorship of agriculture workshops and the farmers markets are part of the Department’s work to support and advance food production and small-scale agriculture in communities across the Northwest Territories.

The GNWT has committed to investing in agriculture to advance economic diversification and contribute to a lower the cost of living in the NWT.