The new Springfield Farmers Market has opened. The Market operates from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Springfield City Hall Parking Lot. The Maret is managed by Lane count Farmers Market, an organization that manages the Thursday and Saturday Farmers Markets in Eugene. On June 18, Hayley Shapiro, Executive Director of the Lane County Farmers Market will present an overview of the Lane County Farmers Market and its various programs and discuss the experiences in the first two weeks of the Springfield Market.

Here is how Hayley describes herself. A desert rat turned PNW die-hard, hi, I’m Hayley Shapiro, the Executive Director of the Lane County Farmers Market. I grew up around a multi-generational dinner table. Surrounded by family and food, I learned to use my voice; I dreamt of worlds built on justice and tested my theories of societal change. That spirit has influenced my career, and for over 15 years, I have dedicated myself to community organizing. My work has focused on ways to bring people together, whether through food, art, play, or protest. I strive to create a sense of belonging and resiliency, and my approach is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and a deep respect for the people who make local ecosystems thrive. I cannot wait to learn all about the hearts, hands & spirits that make this market ecosystem thrive.

Prior to joining LCFM, I served as Program Director for HOOTS at White Bird Clinic, where I oversaw integrative mental health school programs for youth across Lane County. Advocating for youth and empowering them to have agency over their own well-being was not only my duty but also became my passion. My commitment to our local food systems is inspired by my commitment to our community’s well-being, and just as I did at my family’s dinner table, I will continue to use my voice to help shape a more vibrant, just, and inclusive future for LCFM. In many ways, I consider our farmers and our market the heart of this town, and I am honored to continue that legacy.

In addition to my role at LCFM, I love spending time with my chosen family, making weird art, frolicking in nature, good film, good food & good dancing. Some things I think you should definitely know about me: I do not drink caffeinated coffee, I kill houseplants, I don’t know anything about professional sports, and I hablo español! Also, I will always be turning a look at the market, so please come find me, say hello & tell me about yourself and your dream.