Folks Farm is not a normal farm. The majority of producers globally, but especially in America, grow crops sent to a middleman before distribution. Whether that is a grain elevator, a distributor, or a manufacturing plant most of the food grown on farms takes several steps before arriving at your plate. Each of those steps requires fuel, infrastructure, and often refrigeration. As a business, we have chosen to maintain direct connections with our customers. The food is grown, processed, and primarily sold on site.
The CSA, or community supported agriculture, model was invented to help farmers and consumers link in the food supply chain. It is a unique model built of trust and contact to keep both participants engaged in the relationship. I use CSA dollars to fund the beginning of the season when we are selling less fresh produce instead of seeking an operating loan. This has been our model since the inception of the farm and I have learned over the years what works and what doesn’t.
After year one we transitioned our system to allow members the ability to choose their weekly shares instead of pre packed boxes. Twice a week we would set up at the farm or farmers market and members could shop based on their preferences. It was a great system because we were getting people what they wanted. However, we ran into issues keeping track of balances (we were using a spreadsheet) and looked to improve.
The following year we adopted a CSA Card model. Preloaded with veggie credits members could now use their card, which kept perfect track of the account balance, and get what they wanted. At the same time we opened a self-service farm stand that could accept payments. When everything went according to plan, the system was great. However, with spotty internet, maintaining quality in the self-service model, and keeping everything stocked we had to do better still.
This past year we took a gamble on staffing the farm stand. Now any issues that came up could be dealt with in real time by a real person. No more quality issues, no more internet issues, and better community/farm connection. Plus we received quick feedback from our members and could help them try new vegetables and recipes.
Our last season was challenged and we learned the biggest lesson in managing a CSA, accountability and integrity. CSA members place their trust in the farmer to use their money to grow vegetables. As growers we must follow through on that transaction and do the work to grow the crops and get them to the members. We fumbled with hours and availability in the farm stand this past year and have built systems to guarantee that will never be issue again.
As we round the corner towards next season we continue to refine our CSA program in search of the win/win combination between farmer and member. A new tweek is the introduction of the “Super Share”. Members who purchase this share get access to EVERY product in the farm stand. Single and Family shares include fruit but not eggs, bread, kimchi, soap, honey, and other local products we source.
CSA memberships can be a heavy lift for people which is why we have partnered with the Vegetable Connection to provide those unable to afford a membership access. Since working with them over the past 5 years our relationship has grown. If you feel compelled consider making a donation to this wonderful nonprofit. Also, reach out if you’d like a CSA share but aren’t sure how to afford one!
Another shift we are doing this season is making the Kitchen Herb Garden a “Cut Your Own” flower patch. The flower garden will be planted directly next to the farm stand for both public and members. Imagine getting your kids in the flower patch, or having a quiet moment to connect to the buzz of an organic farm.
CSA farming requires a two-way relationship. Every year we survey our members to better meet next years needs. We also get real time input in the crops people enjoy or dislike the most. Our crop plan is directly affected by the demands of the previous season. The balance of having enough of the popular crops while maintaining diversity is a challenge I personally enjoy. I am pushed every year to improve and find empty pockets of space able to accommodate crop diversity.
In line with next year’s theme of generosity the CSA’s mantra will be “Eat the Delicious Rainbow”. Think lots of color, freshness, old favorites, and new twists all coming direct from the field to your kitchen.