Community supported agriculture (CSA) is a big name for a simple idea. It’s where a community – large or small – makes a financial pledge to support a local farm. Together the farm and community share the ups and downs, risks and rewards of farming and growing – and help each other out.
By making a financial commitment to a CSA scheme, people become 'members'. They pay for a season up-front through weekly, monthly or even annual payments. In return they receive a share of the farm's produce.
As that history and ethos suggests, CSAs help to directly connect local farmers with their communities, and to support the development of local food supplies and culture. There are lots of benefits to becoming involved, from knowing where your food comes from to helping to develop a secure market for local producers.
The UK imports 50 % of its food, with the rise in the cost of fuel, food prices are rising. What we need is sustainably produced local food so that we can enjoy good quality fresh produced at a reasonable price.
Here at Culberry we are starting a CSA, if you are interested please contact us. We hold work days and guided tours, please watch this space for the next one.
