If you’re new to Community Supported Agriculture or CSAs, it may seem early to be thinking about them. However, winter is the time when joining one means the most. This is when farmers are planning for the upcoming growing season, and buying a share provides much-needed capital to purchase necessary seed and equipment. In exchange for your investment, you become a member of the farm and receive a regular share of the food, usually on a weekly basis. At its most basic, your financial support helps the farm to provide locally grown, sustainable food. In return, members receive fresh food direct from the grower, and gain a deeper connection with our local farms and how our food is produced.
If you are considering joining a CSA, this video offers some great advice from both farmers and members on what to expect:
More recently, CSAs have expanded the range of choices being offered. Some of the options may include multiple pick-up days and locations, winter or 3-season shares, flexible spending plans, cooperative or work shares, or add-ons of meat, dairy and bread. As part of our CSA at the Market on February 26, we’ll have more on what this new generation of CSAs have to offer. To get you started, here’s an updated list of CSAs now open and accepting members for the 2011 season:
- Garen’s Greens at Riverside Farm
- Old Fields Farm Food Cooperative