The Umpqua Valley is well known for its produce-packed region with a scenic landscape saturated in farms, ranches and vineyards. The climate and soils lend a uniqueness to the area, providing a variety of fruits and vegetables from spring well into fall, and attracting customers from all over the state of Oregon as well as California. 

At the end of May and into June, there is no better way to commence the growing season than with bright-red, drippy-sweet Umpqua Valley strawberries. Take a gorgeous drive to one of the many local farms or farmers markets and make sure to stock up – you’ll be surprised how fast these gems disappear. 

The Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market has park-and-order spots available for those who don’t want to leave their cars and customers can call 541-530-6200 for orders to be packed up ahead of time. Orders can also be placed on their Facebook page at facebook.com/UmpquaValleyFarmersMarket. The market is located at 1771 W. Harvard Avenue in Roseburg. 

Kruse Farms is a local favorite for strawberries and more. They are located at 532 Melrose Road in Roseburg and will open their 2020/2021 season May 21 at 9 a.m. Visit krusefarms.com for produce updates. 

Keep the delicious taste of Umpqua Valley strawberries going all year long with this Strawberry Freezer Jam!

Strawberry Freezer Jam

  • 4 cups hulled fresh strawberries
  • 4 cups sugar
  • ½ tsp. lemon zest
  • 1 1.75-oz. package regular powdered fruit pectin or 6 Tbsp. classic powdered fruit pectin
  • ¾ cup water

In a large bowl use a potato masher to crush berries until you have 2 cups. Mix berries, sugar, and lemon zest. Let stand 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. In a small saucepan combine pectin and water. Bring to boiling; boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add to berry mixture; stir about 3 minutes or until sugar is dissolved and mixture is no longer grainy.

Ladle jam into half-pint freezer containers, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Seal and label. Let stand at room temperature 24 hours or until set. Store up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator or up to one year in the freezer. Makes 5 half-pints.