What is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)?

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a model of food production and distribution that connects consumers directly with local farmers. The CSA model is based on the principle of community members supporting a local farm by buying a share of the farm's production in advance, before the growing season begins. This allows farmers to have a guaranteed market for their products, and consumers to have a direct source of fresh, locally grown produce.

Typically, a CSA operates by having members purchase a share of the farm's production at the beginning of the growing season. The share can be in the form of a weekly or bi-weekly delivery of produce, or a pick-up at the farm or designated location. The share typically includes a variety of fruits and vegetables that are in season, and the amount and type of produce can vary from week to week depending on the harvest.

The picture included with this blog post is of a farm in the Snoqualmie River Valley, Changing Seasons, whom Dominica worked with for several years before we bought our own farm. They offer a CSA and if you are interested, you can check out them out!

One of the main benefits of CSA is that it allows consumers to have access to fresh, locally grown produce that is often not available at supermarkets. Additionally, CSA members have the opportunity to learn about the farming process, meet the farmers, and develop a deeper understanding of the food they are consuming.

CSA also provide benefits to farmers, by providing a guaranteed market for their products and enabling them to plan their production and budget accordingly. CSA also promotes sustainable agriculture by fostering relationships between farmers and consumers, and encouraging the use of environmentally friendly farming practices.

We encourage you to support local farms, your community and eat healthier! There are several in our area you can connect with.