CSA
Kale, parsnips, rutabaga, lettuce, onions, and sweet potatoes. These were just a few of the items that I pulled from my family’s first CSA bag two decades ago, and half of them I had never cooked with before. Little did I know, I was embarking on what would become a lifelong edible adventure.
We were a two-career household who wanted to step up our game in terms of putting healthy, nutritious food on the table for our young son—and for ourselves. Over the years, that bimonthly share program delivered much more than just food. It helped me to become a better cook and opened my eyes to new ingredients and flavors. It forever changed our commitment to eating organically and sustainably. It helped my son become a much healthier eater than I had ever been. It allowed us a way to consistently support our farming community. Becoming a member of that CSA program was probably one of the best things we ever did for our family’s health and nutrition.
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) subscription programs have gained momentum across New Jersey since the 1980s. By making a financial commitment to support a particular farm or co-op group, consumers provide farmers with operating funds before harvest or year ‘round, either with a one-time upfront membership fee or weekly/bimonthly payments. In return, CSA members receive an abundance of exquisitely fresh produce and other items, such as meats, milk, and eggs, throughout the harvest season or year ‘round, depending upon the particular program. The model has evolved over the years, especially during the era of Covid-19, to best meet customers’ needs. Some services now allow for customizing orders in terms of add-ons and offer a variety of share sizes, timing options, and pickup locations.
Farms and food co-op services throughout the state are currently accepting CSA membership for the 2022 season, and our partner CSA farms are listed on these pages. We encourage you to visit their websites to determine the program that works best for you. Commit to a CSA program this year to support our region’s outstanding farms—and your family’s own good health.
