All About CSA!
By Roopsha Bandopadhyay
What is CSA?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that 12,617 farms in the country were involved in a CSA program in 2012. This was a slight increase from 12,549 farms in 2007.
Benefits of CSA
Farmers and Consumers
Farmers are able to start selling their vegetables before the harvest season, gain an early payment for their produce, and receive opportunities to expand their connections and networks through the people who purchase their produce. Additionally, the community of consumers share the risks associated with a poor harvest due to pests or unfavorable weather.
Consumers receive locally-grown, fresh food and their nutritional benefits with no additional processing or chemicals; an appreciation for multiple, novel kinds of vegetables; an opportunity to visit and observe a farm up close; and a way to build a relationship with local farmers.