Community Supported Agriculture

What is the definition of  CSA?

In 1993, Suzanne DeMuth wrote the following definition based on an excerpt from Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): An Annotated Bibliography and Resource Guide:
 "CSA consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, either legally or spiritually, the community's farm, either growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production."

www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/pubs/csa/csadef.shtml

How does a CSA work?

Members of the community buy shares from the farmer/grower before the season begins. By signing up as share holders, members help cover anticipated costs for the growing season. Some of these costs include, but are not limited to, seeds, plants, potting soil, fuel to heat the greenhouses, and gas to run the tractors or irrigation pump.

What can I tell you about the Souza Family Farm CSA?

In the past, we maintained a small produce stand out in front of our home and spent our time and energy growing for the wholesale market.

For CSA information, contact Val at (508)802-8126

What can a shareholder expect in return for a share?

When you come to the farm to pick up your share, you will receive

•  produce that has been harvested as close to your scheduled pick up time as possible.
• a variety of different fruits and vegetables

Why not just buy at the local market or the stand?

• It's grown locally!
• cuts down on your carbon footprint
• As a shareholder, your produce will be picked and packed for you.
• You are helping maintain farmland by supporting your local growers.
• You can actually know where your food is produced.

The CSA Program has been SOLD OUT! Contact Val to be placed on the waiting list.

33 Agricultural Ave., Rehoboth, MA 508-245-4635