Farmers markets begin today

HAYDEN - Kootenai County Farmers Markets are preparing for the opening of their 25th season on Saturday at U.S. 95 and Prairie Avenue and Wednesday, May 11 at Fifth and Sherman in downtown Coeur d'Alene.

"We are excited to welcome our loyal shoppers and faithful farmers, food producers and artisans back to KCFM for the opening of our 25th anniversary season," said Gail Cassidy, market manager. "We're counting the days until May 7 - the day we can reconnect with familiar faces and once again feast in the bounty of our wonderful region."

This year, the Saturday market has new hours and will be open 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The Wednesday market is open from 4-7 p.m.

The two markets are open rain or shine.

Shoppers will be able to peruse fresh produce, live music and espresso plus local products, from cheese to chairs, artisan breads to birdhouses, plants to pickles.

There are plans for a birthday party on July 16 in honor of the market's 25th anniversary.

Information: www.KootenaiFarmers Markets.org

Rural residents need burn permits

Starting Tuesday, anyone living outside cities and fire districts is required to have a burn permit for open burning.

Contact your local fire department, the Idaho Department of Lands office at 3258 W Industrial Loop, Coeur d'Alene or the U.S. Forest Service Fernan office, 2502 E. Sherman Ave., to obtain a free state permit.

Anyone burning logging slash on private ground will need a permit from the DOL.

Local fire departments can issue permits and may charge a fee.

Information: DOL, 769-1577 or U.S. Forest Service, 664-2318.