Page 40 - Valley Table - Spring 2021

FARMS, FOOD & MARKETS | 2021 HUDSON VALLEY CSA SHARES
Find the right CSA
Not all CSA farms operate the same — there’s often flexibility in terms of cost, pick-up schedule or location, contents,
and more. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, ask the farmer. Getting in touch via email or phone will give the farm the opportunity to let you know if they can offer what you seek. Here are a few options to consider when choosing your CSA.
PAYMENT PLANS
Some CSAs offer payment plans, sliding- scale or income-based pricing, working shares (in which you volunteer at the
farm for a partial or full discount), or even debit plans that allow you to add to your account during the season. If you don’t see an option like this on their website, ask — many farms are willing to arrange a payment plan. An increasing number
of Hudson Valley CSA farms accept SNAP/EBT.
PICK-UP LOCATION AND TIMING
Choose a CSA that best suits your schedule and location. Many CSA farms offer on-farm pick-up within a set window
of time. To accommodate busy work schedules, some farms offer after-hours
or honor-system pick-up. There are also farms that have off-farm distribution sites at schools, worksites, community centers, farmer’s markets, or churches.
SHARE CONTENTS AND SIZE
Due to COVID-19, most CSAs are offering pre-bagged shares based on what’s in season and available at the farm. That
said, some farms still allow members to customize their share using a “free choice” model. Many CSAs offer specialized shares or share add-ons, including eggs, meat, dairy, flowers, herbs, and/or value- added items.
PICK YOUR OWN
Some farms allow members to pick their own vegetables, fruit, herbs, and/or flowers.
38 the valley table
april – may 2021
photos by eva deitch
About the HudsonValley CSA Coalition
Since 2016, the Hudson Valley CSA Coalition has worked hard
to support, expand, and diversify our region’s CSA community. Its network of more than 110 CSA farms, spanning 15 counties, is committed to recruiting first-time CSA members, expanding the local CSA member bases of area farms, and making CSA a familiar and accessible option for everyone in the Hudson Valley.
Visit hudsonvalleycsa.org to learn more about the Coalition and to find the perfect CSA for your needs. Use the “Find a Farm” function to search for farms by ZIP code, county, share types, and payment options. Each farm has its own webpage where you can learn more about its unique pricing models, pick-up times and locations, share sizes and contents, growing certifications, and season duration. Once you have purchased a CSA membership, visit the “Use Your CSA” section for culinary inspiration, storage tips, and more.