This is Jessica from the farm team. I am writing to let folks know that the sign-up link is live! Soon the greenhouses will be full of seedlings as our team begins seeding for the 2021 season.
There are several new announcements regarding the CSA program this year, so be sure to keep reading for more information.
And a special thanks to everyone who filled out the survey for last season. I personally read every submission and gathered your input to create an action plan addressing the feedback. It was very helpful in planning for what I feel very confident will be a much improved 2021 season.
Summary of things to know before signing up:
- The season got longer – we’re back to 22-weeks!
- Pre-packed boxes will continue for safety during the ongoing pandemic
- A 6-week winter share is in the plan – confirmation deadline August 16th
- All sites will now offer a ‘Partial Share’ option!
- There are share price increases
22-week Season
We are going back to a longer season by adding 2 more weeks, extending further into the fall. If by chance crops are ready earlier this spring, we may start one week earlier and then end one week later. Basically, there are a few ways to reach 22 weeks total but we’re leaving the decision open until we see what things look like in our fields in May.
Pre-packed Boxes
While many members expressed the much missed pros of the ‘market-style’ model, a majority of folks also requested the pre-packed boxes continue while pandemic precautions remain critical to everyone’s safety. We agree. So, knowing the box method will continue, we are now focused on improving our packing processes and are looking into sourcing better packaging products for items like tomatoes, salad mixes, potatoes, etc. Our goals are to (1) reduce our use of plastic and (2) ensure the produce never arrives bruised, wilted, etc.
6-week Winter Share
Yes – the winter share is back on the crop plan. We have set August 16th as the deadline to confirm our ability to offer the winter share. We will notify all members via email.
Partial Shares Now Offered at All Sites
As a result of continuing to pre-pack shares in boxes, these sites can now accommodate the ‘Partial Share’ option. So for those of you who commented in the survey that you were looking for a smaller amount of produce each week, this is for you! The ‘Partial Share’ includes 6 items per week, as opposed to the ‘Full Share’ which has 10 items.
Season Price Increases
We have increased our share prices to reflect the additional 2 weeks to the season and overall increased operating costs. This necessary price increase will support us in maintaining and improving product quality, especially during a time when sourcing products and materials has proven more challenging. The price increase translates to paying ~$1.50 more per week.
If you have any questions, concerns, or require further clarification regarding price increases, please reach out to me through email: [email protected]
We are feeling well-equipped to say that this season will be a great one. We have multiple new greenhouses, more experience with pandemic food access and delivery, as well as several experienced team members returning for another season who are already in rhythm with the farm. On behalf of the team, I can say we are truly excited to head into this year.
