Nov. 23, 2010

How you would you like to get a box of fresh local food each week, and at the same time, support a local farmer? Well, that is what Community Supported Agriculture is all about--and there are several CSA farms right here In North Texas!

How does it work? CSA is a mutual commitment between local farmers and residents. As a resident you pay an annual membership fee to cover the production costs of the farm. Then, you receive a share of the harvest each week during the growing season. The delivery arrangements vary depending on the CSA. Some CSAs drop a box off at your house, but most have a drop location where you pick it up. 

Local CSA farms include: Texas Daily Harvest, Rose Creek Farms, Aunt Sue's Barn, Wild Plum Farm, Cold Springs Farm, Eden's Garden, and Good Earth Organic Farm. And you can find more by running a search at Local Harvest.

Although many of these farms are located in Terrell, Weatherford, Balch Springs, Celeste... their drop locations are local. 

If you'd like to participate in a CSA program, you can contact any of the local farms here. Many have a waiting list, but as of November 2010, there are two CSA farms that still have a few openings for 2011: Oak Ridge Valley Farm Organics and Good Earth Organic Farm. Oak Ridge Valley Farm Organics' drop location is Tietze Park on Skillman. Good Earth Organic Farm's drop location is in McKinney at Chestnut Square Farmers Market.

Many CSAs are organic, but not all of them. Visit Ecovian to see how specific farms rate. Ecovian bases its ratings on percentage of food sold or serviced which is certified organic, the percentage of food from local sources, and other green certifications.

Finally, since nature is unpredictable, there is some risk based on the success of the harvest. Depending on weather and other conditions, sometimes you may end up with few tomatoes and lots of zucchini.

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