Planning is already underway for one of the biggest social events on the Island's agricultural calendar.
Coombs Farmers' Institute's 38th annual Spring Farm Auction will be held at the Coombs Fairgrounds on Sunday, April 10.
This auction brings together farmers of all stripes, poultry lovers, gardeners, hopeful agricultural novices and all those simply unable to resist the chance at a bargain.
Auction items span the gamut of agricultural products, including livestock.
There have traditionally always been lots of poultry and fowl, and varying supplies of sheep, goats, hogs and cattle.
In the big arena, items can range from tractors, haying and field equipment to small tools and miscellaneous farm and garden equipment.
Anyone interested in growing flowers or food will be kept busy choosing from a wide array of bedding plants, fruit trees, berry canes and perennials.
"This is a fun-filled affair and is the perfect venue to meet like-minded folks to share and discuss ideas related to agriculture," said Janet Thony, president of the Coombs Farmers' Institute.
"There is a growing interest in learning how to be self-sufficient, and this event provides an opportunity for the public to dig in and get started."
Proceeds from the auction support agriculture in action in local communities, in the form of scholarships, bursaries, Agriculture in the Classroom projects, and other local food initiatives.
The 38th annual auction begins with viewing at
10 a.m., with bidding to start at 11 a.m.
Gates will open at 8 a.m. to receive consignments. Large equipment may be dropped off the previous day, April 9, by prearrangement.
There is no buyer's fee; bidders and sellers' cards are $2 each. Lunch and snacks will be available from the 4-H concession on the fairgrounds, which is located on Ford Road in Coombs.
For information or to arrange consignment, call Janet Thony at 250-738-0888 or Glen Hersley at 250-468-7094.
More info is available at www.coombsfarmersinstitute.ca and on the Coombs Farmers Institute Facebook page.
— NEWS Staff and submissions