Questions to Ask Your CSA Farmer

As the number of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms has grown in the region over the years, eaters interested in knowing the faces behind their food have more choices than ever. How do you choose the farm that best fits your needs and is most likely to provide a satisfying experience?

We compiled a list of questions you can ask any farmer as you consider entering into a CSA relationship. You might find some of this information on their website already or reach out. Farmers love to talk about their products and agricultural practices.

Being a part of a CSA is about creating a trusting relationship built on good food, good stewardship, and good friendships, so ask questions and get to know your farmer!

• How many years have you been farming?
• How many seasons have you been doing a CSA? What experience do you have?
• What vegetables do you plan to provide to shareholders?
• What is the size of a share? Do you offer half shares or other sizes?
• How frequent is pick-up? Is there an every-other-week option as well as weekly? What do I do if I know I'll miss a week?
• Are there customization options to choose what vegetables I'll receive each week? (This is less common, but some farms do offer it).
• What kind of communication and education do you provide for shareholders? (Many farms send a weekly email or printed newsletter with recipes and behind-the-scenes information about what is going on at the farm.)
• Are there add-ons available (eggs, honey, baked goods, etc.) for an extra cost?
• Are CSA shareholders welcome on the farm at any point? What community events are held?
• What is your system for storing and transporting the produce once it is harvested?
• At the pick-up locations, is the produce left in a sheltered area to stay cool?
• Why is the CSA model of shared risk/shared bounty valuable to you as a farmer?