Some shareholders said they found the arrangement a bargain compared to grocery shopping, while others considered it a worthwhile indulgence. Most agreed that the urge to buy and spend locally — to avoid the costs and environmental degradation that come with shipping and storage — was behind the decision to join. Shareholders can pick up their goods at the farm or at a store across the street...I have to say from personal experience the CSA we belong to (Green Spirit Farm) has been an exceptional bargain if you compare the produce received every other week to the prices for similar produce at the supermarket. The article does hit the nail on the head as to the biggest detriment of CSA/Farmer's Market sourcing of food being the inablity to secure anything anytime. I am, however, quickly adjusting to the joys of seasonality and the continual guidance nature offers in altering my diet.
The downside for people who are used to grocery shopping comes when they want fresh blueberries in January or, as was the case at Erehwon last week, the tomato plants needed more time in the ground because of a cold spring.
If you are fortunate enough to live in the Madison area you have plenty of options for joining a CSA, with share prices as low as $200 for a summer share. Also, at this time you can probably still find a farm with winter shares, which start around $100. Check out the Local Harvest website for more info.
No comments:
Post a Comment