CSAs

Farms with currently available CSA shares are listed below. A complete list of all farms offering CSA shares is available through Seacoast Harvest, including descriptions of each of their offerings and programs.

CSA Days at the Winter Farmers’ Markets
February 11th, Exeter & February 25th, Rollinsford

In addition to our regular cadre of farmers and food producers selling their locally grown and made foods at the markets, the February markets will also feature the opportunity to learn more about CSAs in the Seacoast area and speak directly with CSA farmers. Community Supported Agriculture offers a terrific way for people to get a steady supply of local food directly from the producers.

Meet 15+ farmers and learn about CSA share options for the 2012 season
Talk with farmers about quantity and pre-ordering options for meat and poultry
Buy a share in a farm’s harvest for the coming season

There are a lot of diverse options for pick-up locations, share structures, available foods, and farm involvement. Come to a CSA Day to find the right option for you! Winter Market directions and hours >

Maine CSA Fair

CSA Fairs will take place at various locations throughout the state of Maine February 24-26th. Learn more >

Choosing a CSA

Community Supported Agriculture or CSA is a partnership between consumers and farmers in which
members buy shares of the farm’s harvest and enjoy regular allotments of food throughout the growing season. For farmers, this provides much needed cash flow for the beginning of the season, as well as a ready market and community of supporters. Shareholders join in the risks of the growing season but reap the benefits of the harvest. Each CSA farm has its own pricing structure, disbursement schedule, and some have work requirements. Signups for CSA shares begin in early winter by directly contacting the farm.

Is a CSA right for you?

• Do you like to eat lots of fresh vegetables?
• Are you interested in trying new things?
• Do you cook at home at least 4 times a week?

Questions to ask the farmers:

• How much produce is in a share?
• What vegetables (and fruits) are to be expected?
• How many weeks is the share for?
• When and where are shares picked up or delivered?
• Are the shares pre-packed, or do members pack their own?
• What type of payment schedule is expected?
• What happens if a pick-up is missed?
• Does the CSA offer extra add-ons (eggs, dairy, meat, seafood, flowers)?
• Is there a volunteer work requirement?
• How long has the CSA been running?

Why Join a CSA?

• support a local farm
• get know the people who grow your food
• eat fresh, nutritious food
• eat seasonally
• get introduced to new foods
• learn more about your food and how it is grown
• invest in local agriculture and responsible farming practices
• reduce fossil fuel consumption used in food transport
• feel good about your food choices

Available CSA shares

The list maintained here is meant to help interested CSA shoppers navigate availability of shares from area farms. CSA shares are generally offered from mid-January until they are sold out, with farms opening share availability once their plans for the season are firm.

Applecrest Farm Orchards

Brandmoore Farm, brandmoorefarm@gmail.com

New Hampshire Farm Museum

Red Manse Farm

Riverside Farm

Spiller Farm