Ottawa pushes for more local food, fewer imports at city markets

The City of Ottawa is drafting a bylaw that would ensure local fruits, vegetables and meats are featured prominently at the city's farmers' markets, says the head of the city's rural affairs committee.

"Ultimately, I would love to see every market in this city selling only locally produced produce," said Rob Jellett Thursday. "I think to me that is absolutely the best way to go."

Jellett said under the proposed bylaw, vendors at the Byward and Parkdale markets who sell imported food would be allowed to stay but would be in a separate area designated for non-local food.

Doug Moore, the city manager in charge of Lansdowne Park, where the Ottawa Farmers' Market takes place each Sunday during the summer, said the goal of the new bylaw would be to encourage local food production.

The new rules for farmers' markets are expected to be introduced at council this fall.

Jellett mentioned plans for the new bylaw at a meeting where the committee voted to keep the Ottawa Farmers' Market going for at least another two years.

Councillors also voted to allow the market, which sells only local products, to open on Thursdays as well as Sundays.

"I think you've done a tremendous job in creating something that is truly becoming special in the city," Jellett told Andy Terauds, president of the market and one of the food vendors.