Resources > Nutrition > Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs)
Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs)
CSAs are a very simple agreement between you and a local farmer. You buy a “share” from a local CSA farm. In return you receive a box of farm fresh produce every week during the growing season. The farm benefits from your financial and community support. You benefit by receiving the best local produce and getting to know your farmer. It’s a unique and special relationship that builds community, supports our farmers and gives you first-pick of local produce.
Each CSA program is unique: some deliver boxes to a central pick-up location; some require “on-farm pick-up.” Some offer extra add-ons, like flowers; some are produce-only. Some have installment payment plans; some require payment up-front at the start of the season; and some offer weekly pay-as-you-go options. Some farms offer two sizes of shares: one to feed two people and one to feed four people. Two person shares range in cost from about $18-$25; four person shares are about $30-$38/ week.
State Organizations are encouraged to provide employees with access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Your worksite can provide an on-site delivery location for employees who subscribe to a local CSA. Just follow the steps below.
Step 1: Download Implementing CSA Delivery at a State Worksite
Step 2: Determine employee interest and management approval.
Step 3: Follow the procedures for establishing an agreement with a vendor.
Step 4: Find farms that deliver CSAs in your area. Here are a few databases to help you search.
- Washington Farmers Markets
- EAT North Central Washington
- Local Harvest
- Puget Sound Fresh Farm Guide / Cascade Harvest Coalition
- Rural Roots Local Food Guide
- Tilth Producers Directory
- WSU Farm Finder
For More Information
Contact Washington Wellness at (360) 923-2730 or info@washingtonwellness.gov.
Resources
| Executive Ethics Board CSA Ruling and Interpretation | Overview | DOC |
| Implementing CSA Delivery at a State Worksite | Checklist | DOC |
For healthy seasonal recipes, short videos of cooking methods, and more visit Fruits and Veggies More Matters
And, to find out more about the benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Fruits and Vegetables Benefits