The Athens Farmers Market at Bishop Park has been taking orders for pick-up for a while, but on May 9 it’ll open back up to the public for in-person shopping. Does this seem like a terrible idea? There are some strict procedures for how it works, so don’t expect the same crush of people as usual.

1. You have to wash your hands, both before you enter and while you’re in there. Hand-washing stations have been installed.
2. One person per family. This is not a social outing. Don’t dilly-dally.
3. Pre-order if you can. Options are on AFM’s site.
4. Wear a mask. This is not optional. If you forget yours, you can buy one there.
5. Keep your distance from people, duh.
6. If you must pay in cash (and try not to), leave it on the table for the vendor to pick up.
7. High risk? Stay home.

The West Broad Farmers Market is also opening the same day, in a drive-thru format in the parking lot of the Athens Housing Authority at 300 S. Rocksprings St. AHA is also providing land for the community garden that was previously on Clarke County School District property. You can order ahead of time at wbfm.locallygrown.net, beginning at 5 p.m. each Sunday and continuing through 1 p.m. Thursday, then pick up your order on Saturday between 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., paying when you get there. Folks who live in the West Broad neighborhood can have their orders delivered.