I thought I would give you an up date on the Farmer's Markets in the region. I'll be honest: the potential for this year being a bumper bumper bountiful harvest is well in the grasp of local farmers.

The temperatures have been just great, coupled with rain almost every 3-4 days. If farmers continue to watch their disease and insect problems, they are due to reap great rewards this year. The great rewards will also trickle down, of course, to the consumer.

So far at the farmer's markets, I've seen a small crop of squash, both green and yellow. Remember, if you are a gardener, the more you pick squash, the more comes on and on and on and on--if you know what I mean.

Soon, green beans will make their way to many farmer's markets with plenty of stringless, as well as string beans like half runners. If you love new potatoes and peas, like yours truly, both will be available at these outdoor markets soon. Give me some graveled red potatoes and new peas and I can be content for days.

Most markets only have a small supply of green tomatoes to sell, but as the season progresses, red tomatoes will start to appear on the farmer's tail gates. Don't forget, even if they only show a slight pink color, tomatoes will ripen to their full potential in a matter of days.

As for sweet corn, it continues to be a much wanted vegetable at many markets, but it's just getting started. Starting around July 1st, you should find the earlier varieties available like Incredible, Temptation and even Ambrosia, as these are great early corn varieties and they will actually stay fresh in the fridge for as much as two weeks.

If you want fresh, locally grown produce, go to a farmer's market in your area.