Salamander Springs Farm/Permaculture Organics

Hello CSAers,

It can be hard to believe in the depths of winter, but seed ordering, planning, bed preparation and even some plants (onions) have already started for the 2015 season!   Before we open this year's CSA, I want to ask you for some quick feedback.

The 2014 CSA was different than 2013 in a few ways.  First, without the Bread Share (35-40% of the cost of the 2013 CSA), it included more fresh produce.  Secondly, we did not give you a box of pre-selected items, but let you select what you wanted at the market.  We did set aside some limited, perishable items (like greens) but otherwise 2014 was a first-come, first-serve system.  Because we do not have internet at the farm and 2014 had all returning CSA members, we also did not post a weekly newsletter about the produce and farm activities.

This type of "Shopper's Basket" CSA was discussed at two farmers' conferences where I taught this winter.  Farms in some states are even using a special CSA debit card to streamline the process.   But other farmers feel that it doesn't fulfill one of the CSA missions (see below*).  However it does fulfill the important mission of helping the small farmer through the toughest season of the year, early spring, when there is much work and expense but little income is coming in.  To help me evaluate the best way to proceed this year, your feedback will be much appreciated!   Reply to the questions below with number ratings to the questions below and add any other comments you have!

Thanks much,

Susana

*The Community Shared Agriculture Mission: Recognizing the significant odds against small farmers in an industrial food economy, CSA programs were developed to help communities directly support local farms, sharing in both their risks & benefits. CSA shares are an investment in a stronger and more stable local food economy; they help alleviate the risks and cover the up-front production costs at the most difficult time in the season for small independent farmers. In turn CSA members are provided a direct, transparent relationship to truly healthy food. Shareholders also experience the joys and health benefits of learning new ways of eating locally and seasonally, such as freezing, canning or drying local food for the winter.

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2014 CSA members:

Rate these questions with  1, 2, 3 or 4  (1 least positive to 4 most positive)

Did you like selecting your own produce rather than pick up a box?

How do you rate the quality and quantity of produce received?

Would you like us to set aside more items for you?  

Would you prefer us to not set aside any items for you?

Other comments:

What did you like most about the 2014 CSA?

What worked least well for you?

Do you plan to be part of our 2015 CSA?

2015 Shares will be $650 before March 15 and $675 until April 15. CSA members can use their share at any market after joining, through the end of the season.

S A L A M A N D E R   S P R I N G S   F A R M