Whatcom's open markets: veggies just a few miles from the farm.(OFF THE CLOCK)

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The high-noon sun shines down on an array of colors on the corner of James and Carolina streets. Youngstock's Country Farms sits on a small patch of dirt and hay on a busy Bellingham arterial. A few employees bustle in shaded aisles of seasonal fruits and vegetables from red, ripe strawberries to local, fresh, green asparagus. Joe Chartier said business always gets better when the weather gets brighter.

"We know each piece of product and that's what we pride ourselves in," Joe said. "We want to teach customers how to pick the best pieces out."

Youngstock's, the Sundance Market in Custer, and the Ferndale Farmer's Market are three examples of open markets in Whatcom County. Each relies heavily on a "buy local" emphasis for their business. These local markets have provided, an outlet for vendors all over Whatcom County to sell their goods and also provide quality produce at a good price.

The Sundance Market has recently come under new management, while the Ferndale market is going into its second season in the area. Youngstock's has been a family-run business in Bellingham for the past 38 years.

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