Three Vashon farms are offering up Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares this summer, whereby Islanders can have a steady supply of produce for 20 weeks.
CSA shareholders pay a fixed price before the season begins and then are treated to a portion of a farm’s bounty all farming season long.
GreenMan Farm, which has not had a CSA program for five years, is joining CSA mainstays Hogsback Farm and Plum Forest Farm in offering a produce shareholding program this spring and summer. Each farm operates a CSA program independently of the others.
“The CSA is a relationship of mutual support,” said Jasper Forrester, co-owner of GreenMan Farm.
The CSA process, she said, benefits both the members and independent farmers.
“In return for an annual subscription fee to cover the production costs of the farm, CSA members receive a weekly share of the highest quality organically grown produce during the local growing season,” Forrester said.
At the same time, she added, membrs are “directly supporting small, family farms in our community.”
Islanders should sign up this month for the CSA program of GreenMan, Hogsback or Plum Forest by contacting the farmers at one of the farms.
Three farms offer CSAs on Vashon
GreenMan Farm, located at 8800 S.W. Dilworth Rd. and run by Jasper and Will Forrester, operates a CSA program from June through October. The cost for the 20-week season is $500, and CSA shareholders will receive farm-fresh veggies, flowers, fruit and surprises. Call 567-4548 or visit greenmanfarm.com to sign up for the CSA.
Hogsback Farm, at 16530 91st Ave. S.W. and operated by Brian and Sarah Lowry, offers a 20-week CSA program for $500. The CSA, June through October, features vegetables, flowers, berries, fruit and herbs. Call 463-0738 or e-mail redrock1977@yahoo.com to sign up.
Plum Forest Farm, at 20020 107th Ave. S.W., offers a 20-week CSA for $500. The farm, run by Rob Peterson and Joanne Jewell, offers a CSA of seasonal vegetables and fruits beginning in late May. Call 463-3518 or visit www.plumforestfarm.com/csa to sign up for the CSA program.
