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Resources > Nutrition > Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs)

Community Suported Agriculture (CSAs)

As per the USDA Community Supported Agriculture page, CSAs consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, the community's farm, with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production. Typically, members or "share-holders" of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation and farmer's salary. In return, they receive shares in the farm's bounty throughout the growing season. By direct sales to community members, who have provided the farmer with working capital in advance, growers receive better prices for their crops, gain some financial security, and are relieved of much of the burden of marketing.

When employers make CSAs available to their employees, it is generally the employee who pays for the CSA directly. The employer provides an on-site drop off location. By providing employees with access to fresh local produce, CSAs are one way State organizations can support their employees in eating healthy.

Step 1: Download the Executive Ethics Board Ruling and Interpretation

Step 2: Follow state contract rules and your organization's procedures for setting up an agreement with a vendor/farmer.

Step 3: Identify Community Supported Agriculture Opportunities

Find CSAs that can deliver to your organization's location(s). Here are some databases you can use to start your search, however, be sure and use other resources as well as not all CSAs may be listed.

For More Information

Contact Washington Wellness at (360) 923-2730 or info@washingtonwellness.gov.

Resources

Executive Ethics Board CSA Ruling and Interpretation Overview DOC