Think spring by signing up for a CSA

Mariel Borgman<mborgm@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

Buying in now helps your farmer get ready for the growing season.

The snow may be falling across Michigan, but it is a great time to start shopping for your 2018 CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). CSA is a way for individuals and families to invest in a local farm by purchasing a share of their products at the beginning of the season and receiving fresh food as it is harvested. A share is an offering that varies from farm to farm in size and product mix, but is essentially a subscription of farm fresh food that is delivered or picked up on a regular basis.

While it may seem early, produce farmers are already purchasing seeds and other necessities to get ready for the spring planting season. By investing in CSA over the winter, the farm has the security of your business in the coming year and your payment helps them with cash flow during a time when sales are slower.

If you’ve never tried CSA before, the Michigan State University Extension CSA Infographic covers the basics of what to expect and what questions to ask yourself and your farmer.

CSAs also make thoughtful holiday gifts that keep giving throughout the year. If gifting a CSA does not fit within your budget, ask a friend if they would like to split a CSA share with you and gift them a new kitchen gadget or a cooking class.

If you are a farmer interested in starting a CSA or a consumer who is looking for the right CSA farm in your area contact your local Community Food Systems educator through the MSU Extension find an expert page. Michigan State University Extension’s Community Food Systems Work Team supports the development of local food systems in Michigan. For more information, connect with your local community food systems educator by visiting http://msue.anr.msu.edu/ or calling 1-888-678-3464.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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