The term “CSA” stands for “Community-Supported Agriculture” and is a food distribution system that directly connects farmers and consumers. Members buy “shares” of a farm’s harvest in advance and then receive a portion of the crops as they’re harvested.
What’s great is that with this model, farmers earn important early-season capital and have a guaranteed market for their produce. CSA members enjoy overall lower food costs, field-fresh produce, and greater access to high-demand fruits and vegetables. The money stays in the local community and travels just a few hours shortening the food chain and resulting in a lower carbon footprint. CSA members share the risks and rewards of the harvest with the farms they support and provide stability to the farmers by allowing them to plan in advance.
The Cobble Hill CSA, founded in 1996, is one of New York’s longest-running CSAs. We are completely run by volunteers and proud to provide our community with access to fresh, locally-grown produce, while supporting sustainable and ethical farming practices and food production.