Local Food Simply Better: Find Your CSA

Why it matters:

Most food travels over 500 miles before it makes it to our store shelves. Buying food that is local and in season supports your region and reduces your carbon footprint.

Recap:

With an explosion of pesticides and genetically modified seeds in the conventional food supply, why not make the leap and support your local farmers? Didn’t know there were farmers in your area? That is exactly what CSA’s (community supported agriculture) are here to do: bring the farm to your home. Essentially, CSA’s build a relationship of mutual support between you and the farmer. By becoming a ‘member’ of a CSA, you make a commitment to support a farm throughout a season. This includes paying a modest weekly membership fee that yields a weekly box of bountiful, seasonal, organic, freshly picked fruits, vegetables and herbs, all delivered to your door.

This form of collaboration allows farms to grow a wider range of produce while offering organic fare well below grocery store rates.

Commentary:

Bridging the gap within our communities between its people and the food they consume is critical. CSA’s offer the most direct source other than shopping at your local farmer’s market or veggie stand. The convenience of having your produce delivered to your door is a sweet amenity that cuts down on weekly trips to the market. Having been a member of a CSA since college and participated in one in every city that I have lived in, I have had the opportunity to benefit from being introduced to new local veggies and connect with my community wherever I go.