About Simon Organics

What Is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)?

CSA is a unique model of local agriculture that has developed from many different influences. More than 30 years ago in Japan, a group of women concerned about the increase in imported foods and the corresponding decrease in the farming population, initiated a direct growing and purchasing relationship between their group and local farms. This arrangement, called "teikei" in Japanese, translates to "putting the farmers' face on food." A similar community farming approach has been successful in Europe. A variation of this concept traveled from Europe to the U.S. via the biodynamic community. This method was adapted locally and given the name "Community Supported Agriculture" at Indian Line Farm, Massachusetts, in 1985. There are now over 1000 CSA farms across the US and Canada and Simon Certified Organic Family Farm is one of them.

CSA is a partnership of mutual commitment between a farm and a community of supporters which provides a direct link between the production and consumption of food. Supporters cover a portion of a farm's yearly operating budget by purchasing a share of the season's harvest.

CSA memberships are a commitment to support the farm throughout the season, and assume the costs, risks and bounty of growing food along with the farmer. Members help pay for seeds, fertilizer, water, equipment maintenance, labor, etc. In return, the farm provides, to the best of its ability, a healthy supply of seasonal fresh produce throughout the growing season. Becoming a member creates a responsible relationship between people and the food they eat, the land on which it is grown and those who grow it.

CSA reflects an innovative and resourceful strategy to connect local farmers with local consumers; develop a regional food supply and strong local economy; maintain a sense of community; encourage land stewardship; and honor the knowledge and experience of growers and producers.

How our CSA works

Our last year's sharers will have the first chance to buy shares for the current season. Additional CSA membership applications are accepted continually through out the year. Once the garden is full for the year, we will start a waiting list for the coming year. In April we will begin calling applicants on a first come first serve basis until all the shares are sold for the growing season.

Our shares are $600 which includes a weekly pickup of produce. Our harvest season generally last about 18 weeks beginning last May until mid to end October. By joining the CSA you are committing to eating in accord with the seasons. The season starts out with those items that enjoy coolness of late spring. As the temperature warms up and the length of the day increases, vegetable production in both volume and selection will increase. We are committed to sharing only the freshest and most nutrient dense vegetables as each season permits. Usually the season starts out slow, and increases to a peak ending with winter squashes (butternut and pumpkins), various root crops, and greens.

The portions you can expect will be roughly enough for a family of 4, or two strict vegetarians. Here is a chart to give you a feel for when a few different veggies ripen in our area.