Community Supported Agriculture

My local CSA (community supported agriculture) brochure arrived today. Time to sign up and order my share! Last year my family tried so many new veggies. I had never had a yellow carrot or tasted kale. It was fun! A CSA is a partnership between local consumers and farmers. You purchase a share of the crop before planting time so the farmer raises money to purchase his equipment, supplies and seeds. In return, as a member you receive a weekly supply of veggies throughout the harvest season. You, as a consumer, share in the rewards and risks. Meaning if the crop fails due to the weather or another reason, you might not get very much. However, last year I was very much rewarded and had more veggies then my family could handle. As a result my family and friends also shared in our CSA experience!

So what does it cost and is it worth it? The cost for my family through our CSA is $500 for a large share and $325 for a medium share. This begins the third week June and ends mid October! I bought a medium share last year and the crops started slow with not much at the beginning but as the summer progressed I had so much I just started giving veggies away! Is it worth it? Yes! Yes! Yes! The veggies taste wonderful and because they are grown 15 minutes from me I know they are full of the good stuff. There are no pesticides, chemicals or bad stuff used so I feel good about eating the veggies. I can drive to the farm and my kids can play with the farmers four kids and have a connection to the food and the family growing the food. This is very rewarding and worth every penny! I also get recipes each week and learn about the veggie and how to prepare it.

The farm I do business with also offers pastured raised chicken, pork and turkey. Fresh berries are available by flats and this is a hit for my famous strawberry rhubarb pie! Please check into a local CSA in your area and take the time to learn more about the benefits of being a CSA member.