Why you should join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)
What is a CSA?
CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. Members buy directly from a local farm or group of local farms upfront, and in return receive a “share” of produce, flowers, meat or other goods on a scheduled basis. Members share the risks and rewards of farming by signing an agreement with the CSA and paying some part in advance. Members pick up their share either on the farm or in a designated location. There are usually full or half shares that run for a set number of weeks, or sometimes throughout the duration of a season.
Why Join a CSA?
People who buy a share are not only making an investment in their local farm, they are becoming an important part of the local food movement. By paying for produce, flowers, or meat at the beginning of the year, members help farms invest in the seed, labor, and other supplies needed during the season. In turn, members oftentimes receive:
A discount by purchasing upfront rather than buying the products individually,
Farm newsletters, cooking tips, and recipes
Possible customization of shares
Opportunity to learn about new produce
Unbeatable relationship to farmers and the local community
Types of CSAs
While CSAs run generally about the same, not all farms offer the same type of products. There are vegetable CSAs, Meat CSAs, Egg CSAs, Flower CSAs, Honey CSAs, Herb CSAs, and more.
Types of CSA Shares
Depending on what model the farm chooses, there are multiple types of CSAs that a farm can have. Some models include:
A work requirement in exchange for a share in addition to (a usually discounted) the share price
A seasonal box of various sizes that are delivered or picked up each week
A multi-farm CSA in which a group of farmers contributes to a share
A market-style CSA in which the member comes to the site to pack their own share. This can be at a farmer’s market, the farm site itself, or another designated location.
Share Sizes and Prices
Many farms offer share size options ranging from half share to full share. Prices depend on size, what type of CSA it is, what is included, the duration, and many other factors. Farmers usually have all this information and more on their website or farm stand.
How to Find a CSA
Listed are links to help get you started on finding your local CSA
USDA Local Food Directories: CSA Directory
USDA National Farmers Market Directory
The Midwestern Plate advocates purchasing products from local farmers who use sustainable farming practices and have a high standard for animal welfare. In getting to know your farmer, there are some questions to consider asking before purchasing. Click here to learn more.
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