NORTH BAY -- In the 18 years the North Bay Farmers' Market has been around, it's never had to undergo such drastic changes to keep customers and vendors safe.

It's the first time that food producers are the only vendors present at the market.

"We're utilizing more than double the space. It's only one-way traffic," said Mitch Deschatelets, farmer's market chairman.

Volunteers clad in bright yellow and orange vests are making sure shoppers maintain physical distancing and officers with the North Bay Police are stationed at the entrance making sure everyone is following the rules.

"We've never seen something like this.We always have planning to do, but not even near to this point," said Deschatelets.

Tom Tota is one of the owners of Midlothian Valley Farm.

The farm is one of the many vendors selling produce at the farmers' market. He says he never believed the farmer's market would have to shut down due to COVID-19.

"We weren't really sure how it would progress," said Tota. "Being a local farmer, we want to support the local farmers."

Unique to the shopping experience this year, the farmer's market has launched an express pickup service.

Shoppers can now find and order products online 24/7.

Jeffrey and Debby Armstrong from North Bay took advantage of the online option.

"We went online and placed our order and paid for them online and came to pick them up this morning," said Jeffrey. "We hope everyone stays safe."

"It's really nice to see people getting out and sell everything they've worked hard to produce all winter," said Debbie.

Some of the shoppers say as long as everyone stays apart, the changes made to the farmer's market can work for everyone.

"They work so hard all year and they produce locally. I like to support the local market," said shopper Sally Kemshall.

"I'm very happy that it is open because I can get all natural food that is good for me," said shopper Mickey Turnsek.

The farmer's market is looking to welcome back other vendors soon.

Organizers say they are monitoring the situation in conjunction with the health unit.