How a CSA Works
Individuals, families, and households sign up with Anastas Farms, LLC in January through April to purchase a "SHARE" of the upcoming season's harvest at Hilltop Farm in Lakeville, Massachusetts. The commitment in advance supports the costs of running the farm, which are mostly incurred in the spring planting season. A 2011 share costs $450, members of the Trustees of Reservations will receive a 5% discount off the regular share price, with proof of membership. From about the third week of June until October, approximately 18 weeks, shareholders come to the farm once a week to pick up a share. The farm crew sets up a farm stand distribution area pickup days. Shareholders will receive a bag or two, depending on the size of share purchased, of the week's harvest.
More than Just Vegetables
Anastas Farms' CSA offers fresh, local produce at a price comparable to supermarket costs. Yet Community Supported Agriculture is about more than just vegetables. Community Supported Agriculture is based on trust between shareholders, farmers they come to know, and the land from which we all eat. CSA encourages us to eat "in season" and to cook from what is available. CSA connects children to agricultural cycles and gives an invaluable opportunity for hands-in-the-dirt experience that kids crave. Finally, in sharing the risk of each growing season with the farmers, shareholders can intimately appreciate the rewards of the harvest, season after season. In short, CSA promotes and supports environmental stewardship and responsibility, a local farming economy, and individual health.
|
|