CSA programs allow consumers to know where their food is grown and provide more direct support of local agriculture. A program may operate with a single farm or a cooperative of growers pooling their harvest to improve produce variety and to strengthen the program. When you join a CSA, you pay up-front and typically receive a weekly box or selection of produce for an agreed-upon number of weeks. Distribution is most common during summer and early fall harvest. Some CSA programs have multiple share sizes or add-on options to accommodate varying households.
CSA programs offer mutual benefits to both farmers and customers. Farmers receive revenue at the beginning of the growing season when they incur the expense of planting. They can also better plan and predict demand for the growing season, typically 15-20 weeks in Montana. When customers join a CSA, they commit to pre-purchased produce, so a grower has to rely less on selling produce at a farmer’s market where demand is less predictable, and a customer can plan on a set amount of produce. CSAs offer farmers the opportunity to share knowledge about their products with customers, and share their passion for wholesome, locally-grown food.
CSA purchasers benefit from knowing where their food is grown and provide support of local farmers who are part of their community. Customers have convenient access to a variety of locally-grown, freshly-harvested seasonal fruits and vegetables. Weekly shares are easy to pack or pick up on a set schedule, so if you hate shopping, a CSA may be a great way to get a selection of fresh produce and add variety. CSA programs create community, often engaging customers in their food production at local markets or weekly pick up events. Many farms offer bonuses for customers. One CSA offers customers access to a Zoodler–a machine that makes zucchini into noodles, a juicer and a vegetable roaster. This way, customers can go home with already-processed produce which is more convenient to use. “Pick up nights are like a party. We have pizza and people gather and get their produce. We want to make our customers lives easier, and the CSA allows us all to deepen relationships,” commented Purple Frog Gardens owner Pam Gerwe.
The common theme of community-building is an added benefit. Farmers are forming lasting relationships with their customers while fostering a commitment to locally-grown, nutritious foods. Customers are becoming more connected to the farm and farmers. Many farms have volunteer days where customers can work on the farm. Some CSAs require volunteer hours.
As CSA programs have grown in popularity, so has their design creativity. Many farms are forming co-ops with other farms or local food processors to increase variety in shares (i.e. pickled products, jams, and sauces). Just emerging is an option to purchase a share of locally-grown meat. More common are partnerships with bakeries, apiaries, and orchards. Customers can purchase their regular share and then add on other shares if they choose. Increasing options is an excellent way for local farmers and food producers to increase awareness of their products to customers who are already interested in local foods.
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SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE JOINING A CSA: