Community-supported agriculture

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) is a system that connects the producer and consumers within the food system more closely by allowing the consumer to subscribe to the harvest of a certain farm or group of farms. It is an alternative, locally-based socio-economic model of agriculture and food distribution.

Overview

Community-supported agriculture is a partnership between farmers and consumers where the responsibilities, risks and rewards of farming are shared. Consumers, often referred to as members or shareholders, make a commitment to support the farm throughout the season by providing a regular income for the farmer. In return, farmers provide a supply of fresh produce throughout the growing season.

History

The concept of Community-supported agriculture began in the early 1960s in Germany, Switzerland, and Japan as a response to concerns about food safety and the urbanization of agricultural land. Groups of consumers and farmers in Europe formed cooperative partnerships to support each other. The idea was brought to the United States from Europe in the mid-1980s by Trauger Groh, who was influenced by the work of Rudolf Steiner, and Jan Vander Tuin, and it has been growing rapidly in the U.S. since its inception.

Benefits

Community-supported agriculture has many benefits for both farmers and consumers. For farmers, it provides them with cash in advance, which can be used for the expenses of the upcoming season. It also allows them to focus on good farming practices rather than marketing. For consumers, it provides them with fresh, local produce, and it gives them a connection to the farmer and the land that produces their food.

Criticisms

Despite its benefits, Community-supported agriculture has also faced some criticisms. Some people argue that the upfront cost of a share can be too expensive for some families. Others argue that the amount of produce provided can sometimes be too much for small households to consume.

See also

• Sustainable agriculture
• Organic farming
• Local food
• Farmers' market

References

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