So what is a CSA?
CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. In joining a CSA you are buying your produce (even meats, cheese, eggs and other things can be included) by purchasing a share of the farm’s yield. Shares are often sold early in the year before the farm season begins. (Now is the time to look!)
Why a CSA?
Well, for starters it’s local food. The food is picked when ripe and it is fresh! This means that the food will have more of it’s nutrients when it gets to your table.
In addition to having plenty of nutrients, many CSAs are organically grown, even those not certified. Talk to your local CSAs and see what they are all about.
Eating locally is not only great for your body, but it is environmentally friendly. You are supporting local business. There is no need for large facilities and trucks to carry food hundreds, if not thousands of miles just to reach you.
Not sure about the cost of a CSA?
Consider that this will cover the bulk of your produce (and maybe more) costs during the CSAs active months. If you’re still unsure, many families split the cost of a CSA share and divide the shipments up to reduce costs.
How can you find your local CSA?
Local Harvest is a great resource for information about CSAs. Go there, type in your zip code and be on your way.
Another way to find local produce is by going to a farmers’ market. You can also find them on Local Harvest.
I have been considering joining a CSA this spring/summer/fall, but I’m not sure if I will. We’re not sure if we’ll remain in the area, so I don’t want to commit to a CSA if I’m going to bail out half way through. There are local farmer’s markets and stands near us that I might buy from, and there’s also a pick your own farm near us that I might go to {unfortunately it’s 45 minutes away, so it’s better to go with a small group of people}.
I’m always debating CSA versus farmer’s market! I do enjoy the atmosphere of the FM, so that has won out so far. 🙂