Community Supported Agriculture (more commonly known as a CSA) is a system of buying food that connects the consumer with the farm and farmers where their food comes from. It is similar to a farmers market, but instead of coming and buying produce as often or as little as you want, a CSA is a program you join for a whole season. This is because when you join a CSA you pay money in advance and the farm commits to providing a weekly selection of produce for you. The produce might be delivered to your home or to a central drop-off location.

Why is Community Supported Agriculture Important?

CSA's are important for a few different reasons. First of all, if you join a CSA you can be sure that your food is coming from a local farm. When you buy food grown near you it is better for the environment because your food does not have to be transported very far and it also means that you are supporting your local economy. Food from a CSA is also often healthier than store bought food because most CSA's are organic and don't use chemicals to help grow their food. CSA'a often give their members a chance to get involved with the farm where their food comes from with events like festivals, and work days.

Interested in joining a CSA? Find one near the Twin Cities.