Considering the hectic schedules of many college students, it can be difficult to find the time to buy fresh produce and eat healthy. However, the College Hill Farmer’s Market provides a solution. Located on 2205 College Street, the market is a short walk from campus and is held every Thursday from 4-6 p.m. from June through October.

“This is my favorite market, hands down,” said market vendor, Annette Rohlk. “The location is great, and it’s easy access for everyone.”

The market’s convenient location is only matched by the selection of goods, all at a reasonable price. According to the College Hill Farmer’s Market Facebook page, the market offers an abundance of various products including: eggs, squash, carrots, cabbage, apples, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, flowers, potatoes and even jewelry.

“I like to get fresh food that’s grown locally,” said Cedar Falls resident, Elizjah Henry. “It’s a lot better than walking to the grocery store. […] I live on the Hill, and so it’s really convenient to be able to come here and get food at a very nice price, and then take it home and make something tasty with it.”

Market vendor Tony Hershey, who specializes in growing approximately 18 kinds of garlic, stressed the importance of eating locally.

“Anytime you can buy from a local market instead of from a grocery store. It’s better, because you’re dealing with food that is fresher and hasn’t been shipped as far,” Hershey said. “So, when you’re dealing with a local produce, you’re dealing with a greener product.”

Dylan Nielsen, graduate geography major at UNI, believes that attending and purchasing from the College Hill Farmer’s Market supports the local economy.

“I come every week I can, because I like what these folks are doing,” said Nielsen. “They’re making either a supplementary or total income off of cool stuff and tasty food. It’s seasonal, it’s fresh and it’s supporting the local economy by using local ingredients and not depending so much on transportation and imports.”

In addition, the College Hill Farmer’s Market offers a welcoming environment.

“It’s got a hometown atmosphere,” said Dalaney Langel, the market’s marketing assistant, “and it’s a great way to get involved with your community. I’ve met a lot of different people just being part of the market every week.”

The market features different promotions, such as last week’s salsa sample, that further showcases the home-grown food that the Cedar Falls area has to offer.