We are excited to be heading into our third season of farming and will again be offering half and full CSA shares in 2016. As in previous years, we are looking for folks willing to join together with us and become a part of our farm family. Due to our small size, the number of shares offered is limited. To help you decide if our CSA may be right for you, here are some things to consider:

Q – What is a CSA?

A – We hear this question quite often. CSA stands for “Community Supported Agriculture” and over the past 25+ years has become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. Here are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Typically the share consists of a basket of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share (aka a “membership” or a “subscription”) and in return receive a basket of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season. (read more)

Q – Who should be involved in a CSA?

A – A CSA is not for everyone. We are looking for customers who want to partner with us and be a part of our farm. Those participating in our CSA should place a high value on fresh, local, all natural food. They should enjoy cooking, as well as being adventurous and willing to try new foods.

Q – When is your CSA?

A – In 2016 we will be offering both a summer and a fall CSA. Our summer CSA will be 16 weeks long, running from the middle of May through the end of August. After taking off the week of Labor Day, our fall CSA will run for 8 weeks, beginning the 2nd week of September and ending the first week of November.

Q – How often are the deliveries?

A – Shareholders will receive weekly shares as described above.

Q – Where and when are your pick up locations?

A – Delivery locations/days are as follows:

• Hendersonville – Glenbrook (Monday, 3:30 – 4:00 pm)
• Goodlettsville – Goodlettsville Farmer’s Market (Thursday, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm)
• White House – Hill Family Farm (Monday and Thursday, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm)

Q – What happens if I can’t pick up my basket at the scheduled time/location?

A – We understand there will be times when you will be out of town and unable to pick up your share. When this occurs, we suggest having a friend or family member make your pick up. If you miss a pick up without previously made arrangements, we will hold your share for 24 hours and you can pick it up at the farm. Making arrangements for missed baskets is your responsibility. Also, we are unable to give refunds, or credits, for missed baskets.

Q – How much produce is in a full share versus a half-share?

A – A full share is equal to approximately 2/3 of a bushel and a half-share is, you guessed it, approximately 1/3 bushel. We will do our best to be generous with our produce. This goes to the heart of what a CSA is. You are partnering with us and in turn, sharing in the risk/reward. Due to the fact that all-natural farming has many variables beyond our control, we cannot guarantee the quantity or quality of the produce you receive. That being said, please know we will do our best to anticipate these challenges so that you finish the year as happy, satisfied customers.

Q – How many people will a full share feed?

A – Great question! It really all depends on your eating habits. If you and your family eat at home most of the time (and you enjoy eating vegetables), a full share is the best way to go. On the other hand, if there’s only 1-2 of you and you enjoy eating out often, a half-share would be the best bet.

Q – How much do your shares cost?

A – Summer 2016 CSA (16 weeks):

• Hendersonville/Goodlettsville delivery – Full share $625, half-share $375
• Pick up at the farm – Full share $550, half-share $325
• A $50 non-refundable deposit is required at time of sign up to secure your share.
• Payment for your share can be broken into 2 installments, with half (less your $50 deposit) due by March 1st and the balance due by May 15th.

A – Fall 2016 CSA (8 weeks):

• Half shares only
• Hendersonville/Goodlettsville delivery – $190
• Pick up at the farm – $160
• Payment for your share can be broken into 2 installments, with half due at time of sign up and the balance due by September 1st.

Q – What type of produce should I expect to receive in my basket?

A – Early in the summer season you can expect to see cooler weather vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbages, lettuces (head and leaf), swiss chard, kale, snow peas, sugar peas, radishes, turnip greens and strawberries. As we move into summer, expect to receive sweet corn, carrots, garlic. onions, blueberries, multiple varieties of beans, tomatoes and peppers, cucumbers, yellow squash, zucchini, cantaloupe, black-eyed peas, purple-hulled peas, potatoes, fresh herbs and watermelon. Then moving into fall will see a return of the cool weather crops, plus potatoes, zucchini, squash, peppers, tomatoes, winter squash and pumpkins.

Q – I’m afraid I will get produce I don’t know what to do with. What help will you give me?

A – We try to strike a balance between vegetable staples and those you might not think to purchase. Each week we will email shareholders a list of what to expect in that week’s basket and occasionally a recipe to help you try something new. Of course one of the great advantages of having a small CSA is that we all get a chance to know each other. Feel free to call, or email us with any questions.

Q – What if I decide the CSA doesn’t work for me and I’ve already paid?

A – Unfortunately, we cannot give refunds. If you are unsure about whether or not a CSA is right for you, we would encourage you not to join. Instead you could get your feet wet so to speak by coming out to the farm, or visiting us at the Hendersonville Farmer’s Market, and buying fresh vegetables a la carte. If you have to quit because of circumstances beyond your control (moving, job loss, etc), we will do our best to work with you.

Q – Ok, I’ve decided your CSA is a good fit for me and my family. How do I sign up?

A – Most awesome! To join, simply complete the contact form below and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours to complete your sign up.