Mr. Bee's thread got me wondering, do any of you belong to a CSA?
There's probably a good 2 dozen CSA farms around here and there's one in particular that has a REALLY good reputation. Last summer we tried to get in but they were filled to capacity already even before they opened it up to the general public. The let current shareholders sign up before they open to the public.
Well under a tip of the farmer we signed up for them via their winter share program which made us a current shareholder. Thus able to sign up earlier for their summer share! hehe.
We were REALLY happy with our winter share. We're adventerous eaters to begin with so very open to trying new stuff. But there are just some vegetables that are only available at one of the supermarkets and VERY expensive. So it's such a great way to try new vegetables otherwise unavailable to us.
To those that don't know this is a description of what a CSA is from the CSA we belong to:
"What is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)?
CSA is a movement that reconnects the community with its food source, the local farmer -- a grassroots alternative to agribusiness.
We are certified naturally grown, following organic standards, which prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers. Following standards assures you that genetically modified crops and organisms will not end up in your food. More information on Certified Naturally Grown available at http://www.NaturallyGrown.org.
We believe healthy soils produce healthy plants and employ ecological practices such as composting, cover cropping, mulching and crop rotation. We look at the farm as an ecosystem that we directly impact and want to encourage and enhance diversity instead of limiting it.
Farming for the community and providing the best food we can offer to you is our only business. We grow varieties noted for their culinary and nutritional value. Because every meal begins with your eyes, we enjoy growing beautiful vegetables. We believe a healthy diet is essential to superior health and longevity.
Why we charge what we do
In a sentence our pricing lies between wholesale and retail. Surveys returned consistently report that people are getting great value. When you buy a share or a bunch of arugula you are buying more than vegetables, you are supporting our family. We work very hard to earn a modest living. The price we receive for our shares makes it sustainable for us to continue doing what we love. The members are shareholders of the produce we grow. Without their support we would be unable to farm. By supporting us you not only get incredibly fresh and great tasting vegetables full of nutrients and vitality, but a food source you can trust. "
The great side benefit is supporting local farmers.
- Google Plus
- Stumbleupon
- Twitter
- Facebook
- Pinterest
- Favorite0
16 comments