[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/farmstand1dn.jpg” caption=”McMaster’s student-run Farmstand opens this week for the 2011 season. The stand will be located outside of University Hall and will carry various types of produce, depending on the time of year. “]Fresh local produce will once again be available on campus when the
McMaster
Farmstand opens this week outside of University Hall.

The two-day grand opening, running July 13 and 14, will feature
freshly-made food samples,
special deals on local produce, and on-campus musicians.

Andrew Chong, Farmstand director, has big plans for the student-run
initiative, which
operates in partnership with McMaster's Office of Sustainability and
Hospitality Services.

Chong, who began compiling a list of local farms in early April, said
the process of
bringing high-quality, affordable local produce to campus is
incredibly
rewarding.

“I think one of the best reasons to eat local is simply the taste of
the food,” said Chong.
“It's crisper, fresher, and smells totally different than what you
would get anywhere
else.”

The Farmstand is looking to get even more local by sending volunteers
to Westdale's
Churchill Community Garden for fresh produce.

“We're going to be more hands-on this year,” said Chong. “Our
volunteers will not only
be helping with set-up, but they'll also be attending promotional
events and cooking
from delicious recipes.”

The Farmstand is looking for musicians interested in playing at its
grand opening, and
volunteers to help out throughout the season.

For the 2011 season, Mac Farmstand will operate on Wednesdays and
Thursdays from
11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Click href=”http://mcmasterfarmstand.wordpress.com/”>
here for details.