In the Hilltowns and neighboring towns, we are fortunate to have several CSAs, some operating during the growing season (summer and early fall) and some operating year-round. Some CSAs deliver their farm shares to central locations. Click on these links for more details. Read below to learn if a CSA is right for you.
Typically, CSA members or "share-holders" of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation. In return, they receive shares in the farm's bounty, as well as satisfaction gained from reconnecting to the land and participating indirectly in food production.
Local Harvest provides some tips on choosing a CSA. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
Local Harvest provides some tips on choosing a CSA. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Do I like to cook, and does my schedule allow me to make homemade meals?
- Will it be fun to try foods that are new to me?
- How will I handle excess produce? Do I have a neighbor who would like to get some if I get "behind"?
- Am I willing to accept the unknowns involved in "shared risk," for example, if a crop or product does poorly due to poor weather or pests?