Are You a Part of a CSA?

Some of you may be wondering what is a CSA and is it something you should be a part of.  Well, here are a few of those questions answered.  Then maybe you could tell me if you would like to be a part of one.

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture.  A CSA group coordinates with local and regional farmers to bring high quality, locally grown, organic produce into their community weekly or bi-weekly.  A typical season runs from June until the end of October or even into November.  This enables the farmer to give you a nice selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables.  Some CSA's are able to offer their community (members) organic eggs, cheese and other specialties.  Did you know eggs from a local organic farmer could give you approximately 3 to 4 times the amount of omega's than you will find in store bought eggs?

As some of you know there are farmers markets,  what you may not know is where that food is coming from.  Just because it's local does not mean it is any healthier than what you purchase in the stores (it just didn't travel as far).  Unfortunately,  there are local farms that use heavy amounts of pesticides, or even GMO (genetically modified organisms).  Both have been linked to countless health problems, not to mention the impact on the environment.

The difference you will find in a CSA is that there is an established relationship with the coordinators and the farmers to bring the best produce using the highest standards in farming.  By becoming a member you allow the farmer to purchase seeds in advance, and the farmer grows the food specifically for those members in the group.  Many times the farmer will grow items that your group requests. 

Eating organic and local produce is not only healthier for you and your family but it also cuts down on pollution, environmental waste  and cost.  One of  the best features of a CSA is the fruits and vegetable are picked that morning and delivered to your groups location and ready for you to pick up and enjoy.

Living in Jersey and being a part of a CSA for the last ten years has given me the opportunity to connect with local families as well as enjoying some of the best tasting fruits and vegetables.  Jersey is known for its corn, but unfortunately in the US 90% of the corn is GMO and now approximately 40% of the corn this year will be going to create Ethanol (fuel).  I refuse to serve my family GMO products and having a farmer provide organically grown corn on the cob that tastes amazing is worth the wait.

So what do you think?  Is this something you can see yourself being a part of?  Well, I thought about it and decided to start one!  This will be my first time running a CSA ... after talking to the local Jersey farmers I know it is the right thing to do for my family, community and the environment.  I just hope to see you there!