FAQ

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What does CSA mean?

A CSA, or “Community Supported Agriculture” is a farm model in which members purchase a crop share ahead of their harvest. Then throughout the purchase period, the member has a weekly pick up of the pre-paid but freshly harvested items. Shareholders financially support the farmer in advance to grow their food for them and build a deeper relationship to the growers and their local food system. This type of food model helps support more resilient communities and encourages members to eat with the seasons and appreciate the natural variety that comes with each new season. Know your farmer, know your food. Develop a relationship of trust with those that are growing your food. We love CSA because it gives us a chance to get to know those folks that we’re growing for!

Are your veggies organic?

We are not certified organic, however we do follow organic guidelines and our farming approach involves the use of progressive organic and biological techniques and materials, always striving to grow healthy plants that are immune to pests and diseases. We are always experimenting and learning with practices that increase nutrient density and support vibrant ecosystems we can be part of. Our customers can always reach out if they have questions or concerns. 

What are the payment options?

We use a simple “Credit System,” where you buy units that you can use up at your own pace. You pay in lump sums and gradually use up your credits on your flexible weekly share. 1 credit is equal to 1 unit of veggies. You can choose 4 or more veggies per week until your credit account has dropped to 0, then, if you wish to continue, you make a renewal payment. You choose how much you wish to pay in advance in accordance with your needs. Paying more allows more time before renewal, while paying in smaller amounts allows more financial flexibility. We keep track of your credits 

You can buy credits in 3 payment amounts:

• $100 for 20 credits 

• $200 for 40 credits

• $500 for 100 credits

For example, with the $100 subscription, at 5 items a week, your subscription can last 4 weeks. 

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Does the CSA run all year?

Yes! Something that makes our CSA unique is that we offer fresh veggies through all four seasons by using a variety of season extension techniques and growing winter hardy varieties. This way, once you taste the fresh deliciousness of locally grown veggies, you’ll never have to go back!

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What happens when I go on vacation or otherwise can’t receive my order?

We understand that members go on vacation and life happens! You can miss one week per month or a 2 week extended vacation once per year. If you can’t pick up your order beyond that:

• You can always have a friend or neighbor pick up the order for you.  Please instruct them on when and where to pick up your order.

• You can donate your share. If you are not able to pick up your order or have skipped one week in the month already, you can donate your 4 credit order and we will send the produce to bolster the solidarity shares of a fellow farmer for resource scarce families. 

• You can always skip one week per calendar month and let us know in the order form if you will be away or unable to pick up that week. 

• If you are in the Chapel Hill area you can have your order delivered for a $10 delivery fee. Please specify this in the order form with your address. 

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Do I get to choose the mix of produce I receive each week?

Yes! Our flexible and customizable CSA model lets you choose each week what selection and how much of each veggie you desire based on a seasonally evolving list and availability. Each week, you will get a list of up to 15-20 different veggie options and their relative availability and you make your selection of a minimum of 4 items and 1 or more possible substitutions to tailor your order to your tastes and preferences while also enjoying variety and getting a sense of how the crops progress throughout the season.

How many veggies in a "unit"? 

Unit sizes depend on the type of crop and also on the abundance of the season. There is always a minimum unit size ( Farmers Market style) for each crop, but when they are in full production, you get to share in the abundance with increased unit sizes and increased value. Our 4 unit weekly minimum provides an amble amount of veggies for one person, families of more can increase their order to meet their veggie loving needs. 

Can I get my share delivered? 

If you live in the Chapel Hill area. ! For a $10 delivery fee you can get your order delivered to your home in the Chapel Hill area. 

Why should I join a Farm CSA?

Besides supplying you with the freshest, most delicious produce on a weekly basis, it will give you the opportunity to get to know your farmer and where the food comes from. It helps promote a more resilient local food system and economy. Eating locally grown produce helps to support small farmers as well as cuts down the distance it takes for food to get from the farm to your fork which benefits you and the environment. Being part of a CSA also helps to build community with fellow members and encourages sharing recipes, stories, and even meals with one another! It strengthens the web of the local food system, and our all season CSA helps you eat seasonally and try new and interesting veggies and fruits. Joining a CSA strengthens and sustains your commitment to eating locally, supporting neighbors, and gaining greater understanding of how your food grows and how to help it thrive, so we all thrive. 

How are the shares packaged each week?

When you sign up for the CSA subscription you will have the opportunity to purchase the use of one of our custom cooler bags where we will pack your order each week for you to pick up. The cooler bags help keep your veggies fresh and crisp while minimizing our use of paper and plastic bags. The cooler bags stay with us each week so we can reuse them and you can bring your own box or bag to take your veggies home with you from the pick up location 

Can we come visit the Farm at Common Ground where the veggies are grown?

Yes! Come on out and visit! We greatly enjoy hosting members out on the land, checking out what's happening in the garden. We believe it is essential for folks to develop a relationship with the land that their food comes from. We also love having volunteers help out at the farm. Please contact Farmer Doug if you are interested in volunteering at the farm or want to come for a tour. In addition, there are occasional event opportunities for CSA members to come out to the farm, get to know one another, and be part of the team. There are also fairly regular open houses of the land of Common Ground Ecovillage where the farm is located. Please check out commonground.eco for more details and information.