Community Corner
Farmer Sells Fresh Produce At Market
Wauconda resident offers less expensive organic products.
Jim Mauck of Wauconda sells a variety of produce and herbs at Lake Zurich's Farmers Market.
“If people from Lake Zurich or close by would take the time to stop by and check us out, they’d discover that they could get some great deals on what we’re selling — herbs, vegetables, popping corn,” said Mauck.
For instance, the herbs that Mauck sells are about half as expensive as what they would cost at some local retailers.
“And they’re fresher, too. I picked them today,” said Mauck. On this particular Friday, he was peddling basil, dill and cilantro.
Mauck is farming about five acres of a 200-acre cooperative farm in Wauconda. All of his herbs and produce are 100 percent organic.
“That’s another advantage to buying from me — you’re not necessarily getting organic when you go to the store. And if it is organic, you’re paying extra for it.”
Mauck is active at three other farmers markets besides Lake Zurich: Wauconda, Highwood and Deerfield. He said Highwood and Deerfield are the busiest.
“Highwood is more ‘meet and greet’ and Deerfield is more serious shopping,” he said.
Terri Timonen was one customer who made it to the Lake Zurich market. Previously, she had bought produce from Mauck in Wauconda, impressed that he’s growing all of his crops free of chemicals.
“He showed me the best way to grow some tomato plants that I had purchased,” said Timonen. “He’s been great as far as sharing information.”
