So what exactly is a community supported agriculture program (CSA), you ask?
A CSA is an alternative, locally based socio-economic model
of agriculture and food distribution that brings together local farmers and
consumers. Basically, a nearby farm
offers their harvest to local consumers through a subscription that varies
according to the duration and quantity wanted.
Once you are subscribed, you will be getting boxes of the freshest
seasonal produce available!
CSA programs benefit our environment in so many ways from reduction in environmental waste to promoting healthier soil and land. CSA farmers participate in eco-friendly farming by cutting out any use of pesticides on their crops, which helps to limit pollution throughout our environment. In addition, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by the minimal transportation needed by these farmers to get their produce from their farms to local consumers. Their sustainable practices enhance the overall quality of our environment while also reducing their carbon footprint.
Healthy soil means a healthier you. CSA programs benefit you because these farmers are pesticide, artificial
fertilizers, and toxin free. You have
the opportunity to consume some of the freshest produce available and for a
reasonable price. Most of the time
you’ll realize that you get higher quality and more produce for your money from
these CSA bins than when would had you purchased your produce from a grocery
store. CSA programs also give you the
freedom of choice. You get to choose
which farm you prefer to receive your produce from, which farmer you believe promotes
the best sustainability methods, and whether or not the program aligns with
your budget. Depending on the farm,
you’ll receive an array of produce and have the opportunity to experience
fruits and vegetables according to seasons. Sometimes you may see produce you’ve never
seen or heard of, but it allows you and your family to experience something
new. And who knows, it could turn out to
be your new favorite fruit or vegetable!
A farmer benefits
from a CSA program as this gives him or her a secure income year round,
allowing them to continually improve their farming methods and environmental
practices. They have a fair means of
product sales as they sell their produce straight to consumers with no middleman
required. This also gives them the chance
to be more involved in the community, meeting new people, consumers, and other
farmers.
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http://www.localharvest.org/search.jsp?map=1&lat=33.05765&lon=-96.73746&scale=8&ty=6&nm=&zip=75023
These sites allow you to search for CSA programs near you as
well as what their practices may be.
They each have their individual websites where you can learn more about
them and email/call them for more information about their programs and prices. Each farm has their own growing seasons, pick
up/drop off schedules, and agriculture practices.
Don’t forget that you have the ability to visit these farms
to see where it all begins and how it gets from farm to table. It’s a wonderful experience for families to
share with their children and a great way to get out of the house during these
long summer days.
So by joining a CSA, not only are you going green and helping to make Plano greener, but you’re also saving money, improving your health and wellness, and most importantly, improving your quality of life and those around you.
So by joining a CSA, not only are you going green and helping to make Plano greener, but you’re also saving money, improving your health and wellness, and most importantly, improving your quality of life and those around you.
Keep thinking green,
KrisC
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