Today the number of independent farmers is dwindling. So why the increase in the number of markets? The better promotion of markets has guaranteed bigger turnouts, and given farmers good reason to travel from Guelph at 4 in the morning. It doesn't hurt that everyone is freaking out about their global footprint. Especially with the food recalls of late, like cantaloupe affected by scorpions, or salmonella tomatoes (one had previously thought salmonella was limited to chicken products), people want to know where and how their food is being produced, and the name of the farmer. Torontonians are finally realizing that it's not natural to have strawberries in February or asparagus in Decembwe. The number of markets is not only multiplying, but their face is changing as well, serving the multicultural landscape that is Toronto. In an ethnic community in Toronto, citizens might want the apples provided by a local farmer, but are also after a mango. In the next few years, expect to see mangoes sold on behalf of an independent farmer in Brazil.

The Green Barn Farmer's Market (Sat. 2pm-5pm; 611 St. Clair Ave. W) is a project by the organization The Stop, with the intention of not only providing a marketplace, but an education in sustainability. With a neighborhood ecstatic about this new addition, a permanent residence is in the works. Expect a year round greenhouse within the former walls of the TTC streetcar maintenance barn, as well as sheltered gardens. Currently, the market runs in the front courtyard of St.Michael and All Angel's Church. Don't miss out on the The Stoddart Family Farm's all-inclusive booth, selling free range meat, such as Muscovy duck, and guinea fowl, or heirloom cauliflower.