In Massachusetts, the Community Supported Agriculture has found an innovative way to support local agriculture. Members of the CSA have the opportunity to buy shares from a farm in the winter (usually costing between $500 and $600), and in return you will receive 20 pounds of fresh food weekly during the spring, summer and fall.
The food will be delivered to a central location for members to pick-up. This program helps farmers receive money is the cash-strapped winter and early spring months. Without having a messenger between the customer and the farm, the farms receive all the money.
The program is a great help for farmers, but the only downfall is customers are not guaranteed what they will receive every month. If the tomato crops are bountiful the customer will see many tomatoes, if potatoes do not grow well, customers will get few or none.
Although farms want customers to pick up the goods, some offer extra fees to deliver the food by bicycle to nearby homes.
There is no limit in the number of shares. The program is expected to catch on very quickly.
Despite the season, farm loans are available. For those interested in any type of farm loan or ranch loan please contact a Farm Plus consultant today. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information.