CSA is a relationship of mutual support and commitment between local farmers and
community members, who pay the farmer an annual membership fee to cover the
production costs of the farm. In turn, members receive a weekly share of the harvest
during the local growing season. The arrangement guarantees the farmer financial support
and enables many small- to moderate-scale organic family farms to remain in business.
Ultimately, CSA creates “agriculture-supported communities” where members receive a
wide variety of foods harvested at their peak of ripeness, flavor and vitamin and mineral
content.