News
CSAs are here!
Have you signed up for your CSA? Do you know what a CSA is? We have a couple of farmers at the Old Capitol Farmers Market who have CSAs available now.
Let’s get to know what CSAs are. CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. You as the individual purchase a crop share now before the growing season begins. Then you will pick up your just-harvested produce weekly (or bi-weekly) during the season. CSAs really support local agriculture, typically small farms. Smaller farms don’t always have the easiest time, considering government subsidies tend to favor large industrial farms. When you purchase a share you help small farms feed our community and continue to be good land stewards. Plus you help our local economy thrive.
Now you know what a CSA is, here are five reasons why you should get one:
1. You’re supporting your local community – Farmers do more than grow and sell food, they invest in the betterment of their community. When you become a member of a CSA, you join a larger movement of people who care about their community, the environment and food.
2. It encourages more fruit and vegetable consumption – CSA’s are a great way to help clean up your diet. With weeks of produce coming to your door, there is no choice but to add more veggies to your diet.
3. You get to experiment with different types of produce – Get out of your produce rut and have fun with new food! CSA’s do have the traditional produce people know and love, but they also give you the opportunity to try different types of produce. Have you ever had mashed celery root?? Yuumm
4. You’re eating in season – Our bodies aren’t meant to eat the same things year-round. There’s a reason why tomatoes in July taste much better than in December. The produce you get from CSA’s are typically picked the morning you pick up your box. The freshest you can get.
5. The best part – You get to know your farmers and develop a trusting relationship with those who provide fresh produce for your family. Some CSA’s you have the option to pick up directly on the Farm. You’ll be able to see where your produce comes from. Sometimes you get the opportunity to even pick out of the field too.
You can support the Old Capitol Farmers Market farmer’s CSA’s here:
Harvest and Bloom
Fox Path Farm (formerly known as Hilltop Community Garden)
Moon Girl Farm (please email Hannah)