his movement has clearly tapped into a strong and growing
desire among consumers for fresh, local and organic food. At the same time, CSA has responded
vi
to the desire of many farmers for more direct relationships with the people eating the food they
grow. CSA contributes to farm viability in a number of ways. Direct marketing allows farmers to
capture a higher percent of consumer food dollars, while a guaranteed market offers a high
degree of financial stability. Advance payments provide CSAs with an important source of
interest-free capital, in many cases obviating the need for production loans. The relationships
between farmers and members can also contribute to the viability of the farm operations, since
CSAs can draw on members for support during crises or emergencies, or assist with
extraordinary expenses such as the purchase of land or equipment.