What is a typical CSA?

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. Here are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Shares are paid for prior to the start of the season. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share (aka membership) and in return receive a box of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season. A market style CSA gives consumers some degree of choice in their weekly produce.

This arrangement creates several rewards for the both the farmer and consumer. They include…

ADVANTAGES FOR CONSUMER
- Eat ultra-fresh food, with all the flavor and vitamin benefits
- Get exposed to new vegetables and new ways of cooking
- Usually get to visit the farm at least once a season
- Reduce energy consumption by purchasing locally – most foods travel 1500 + miles to reach supermarkets in the northeast
- Develop a relationship with the farmer who grows their food and learn more about how food is grown

ADVANTAGES FOR FARMER
- Get to spend time marketing the food early in the year before the growing season begins
- Receive payment early in the season. We generate very little income at the beginning of the year and face significant start up costs for the season.
- Improve our relationships with our customers and community