From Humble Beginnings to Community Cornerstone
What began as a small family produce operation has become a gathering place for neighbors, friends, and generations of customers. The story of Country Farms Edmonds is one of hard work, family, and a community whose support has helped us thrive for nearly eight decades
[Pictured above: Rod Waters as a child on his first watermelon stack]
The Waters Legacy (1946-2019)
The story of Country Farms began in 1946 when Jay & Lou Waters started selling fresh produce from the back of a pickup truck. Through hard work, determination, and a commitment to servicing local communities, that small operation grew into several successful open-air markets and a bonified trucking company. Our Edmonds location opened in 1960 on the corner of Hwy 99 & 228th.
For decades, the Waters family built more than a produce market. Country Farms became a trusted part of the Edmonds community, known for quality products, familiar faces, and a genuine connection to the people it serves.
[Pictured above: Aaron Sloan and his Aunt Carmella]
Aaron Sloan's Journey to Ownership
In 1996, Aaron Sloan joined the Country Farms team, beginning a journey that would span decades. Soon after, his mother, Cynthia Delp, and her husband, Frank Marks, also became part of the Country Farms family. Together, multiple generations worked side by side, building relationships with customers and helping make the market a beloved Edmonds tradition.
When Rod Waters was ready to step away from ownership at the end of the 2019 season, he entrusted the future of the Edmonds location to Aaron. In 2020, after 24 years of dedication and leadership, Aaron became the owner, continuing the legacy built.
Community & Tradition Today
Aaron is guided by the values of quality, community, and tradition. Whether you're stopping by for fresh produce, seasonal flowers, or a Christmas tree, we're grateful to be part of the memories and traditions shared by generations of local families. In recent years, we've also found a special place in our holiday season for #TreeByBike.
We're proud to give back through weekly donations to the Edmonds Food Bank and ongoing community support. The encouragement of our customers has allowed us to continue growing and serving Edmonds for all these years, and for that, we are truly thankful.
Sourcing Close to Home
We partner with local farmers, hardworking growers, and family-owned businesses to bring unique, high-quality products into our market. In addition to seasonal produce, we offer items like local honey, granolas, salsas, and other locally made goods that reflect the work of people in our own region.
With the continued rise in costs across the industry, it takes more care and intention to keep products as fairly priced for our community as we can.
Supporting these partners and being supported by them in return helps keep our local food system strong while giving our customers quality products made with care and pride.
