My boss has a CSA share, which we like to refer to as the "magic box." Basically you pay for a season's worth of regular produce from the participating farm, which you can pick up directly at the farm or designated locations throughout the city for the urban clientele. It's a great deal: pay a flat fee and then receive 20 weeks of fresh fruits and vegetables, whatever crops the farm is harvesting that week. Not to mention the surprise factor is great - you never know what will arrive in your box!
CSA is a model that has been implemented by many small farms as a mutually beneficial partnership between the business and the consumer. The consumer purchases a share of the coming season's harvest. Typically, the share is paid for well in advance of the season. Consumers receive a good value for fresh, local vegetables and an enhanced relationship with their local farm. The farm receives income in the winter months when the seed, plant and supply bills are piling up and other farm income is minimal or non-existent. CSA also provides the farm an important avenue to supply product directly to the people eating it.
For us city folks who don't have the space to grow our own gardens, a CSA share is the perfect way to eat fresh year-round, while supporting our local growers. Look for a CSA pick-up location near you!
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