CSA stands for “Community Supported Agriculture.” It is a way for people who want to support local farms and food systems to pre-pay for produce, giving farmers a much needed boost in funding during the leanest time of year, and to assume some the risk inherent in food production.

When you buy a CSA membership, you pay up-front for a whole season’s worth of produce. The farm then packages up a certain amount of their harvest every week and sets it aside just for you. Generally, the up-front cost of the membership is much less than what you would pay to buy those same vegetables at the farmers’ market or farm stand.

This way, a CSA program can benefit both farmers and consumers. It also ensures you’ll have a constant supply of fresh vegetables all summer long, making it easier to eat healthy!