The CSA movement started in Europe and Japan in the 1970’s, and has grown steadily in America over the last 20 years. Concerned about the loss of farmland and the use of toxic chemicals in their food, groups have banded together to support local farms. Members pay a set amount in the beginning of the year. In return, they receive a share in the farm’s production — produce harvested throughout the season. This pledge of support helps many small farms survive the vagaries of the weather and wholesale market prices. And, like stockholders, CSA members often have a say in what the farm grows. They also share in the risks of crop failure.

What started in this country as a single CSA in 1986 has grown to over 2,000 today. Many variations on CSAs exist. One such variation is U-Pick, in which members harvest their own food.