Just as the season’s first produce has come available, so has Foodlink’s annual Buy Local! Buy Fresh! map. At this time of year there is fresh asparagus, rhubarb, ramps, fiddleheads and spinach, soon to be followed by peas, strawberries, beans and lettuce. But consumers don’t always know where to find these local treasures.

That’s why no local food enthusiast should be without their own copy of Foodlink’s BLBF map. The handy year-round guide, now in its ninth edition, makes it easier than ever to buy and eat fresh, healthy local food in Waterloo Region and environs. The highly sought after publication directs people to more than 70 local farms as well as farmers’ markets and other businesses that produce and sell local foods.

This year Foodlink invites members of the public to attend the official map launch taking place at the Kitchener Farmers’ Market on Saturday, May 22, 10am-noon. There will be a table set up by the new demo kitchen (upper level). Free copies of the new map will be available from representatives of Foodlink throughout the morning. Be among the first to get your copy, and pick up some great local food at the same time!

Each year the launch takes place in a different location. This year Foodlink chose the Kitchener Market not only because there are several Buy Local! Buy Fresh! farms selling there, but also to showcase the Market’s new demo kitchen where the Farmhouse to Table series will be running. On Saturday May 22 Chef Ryan Murphy will be cooking with naturally-raised pork from Tanjo Family Farm in Millbank.

With a BLBF map you will be able to source fresh fruits and seasonal veggies along with a full array of local meats, preserves, grains and dairy products year round. It’s all right here in Waterloo Region! And Foodlink’s Buy Local! Buy Fresh! map tells you where to find it.

Copies of the new 2010 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map are free and available at all public libraries across the Region, as well as selected food retailers, restaurants, markets and other local businesses. For a full listing of available locations consult this website.