What portion of the farm's budget and how do membership fees benefit the farm?
CSAs are designed to help farmers jump start the season - by getting funds up front! Right now here is a sample of what we are paying for - seeds($300), specially grown heirloom tomato plants($700), additions to hoop house($400), peat moss($120), field labor(1,200), compost(from our horses, goats and chickens), products from other farmers to stock the farm store($various) - this all adds us to alot of cost just one month. As our membership grows, so does the cost. Anything left over is considered income to our farm. Income from other sources includes our pony rides, agritourism, frozen foods, and hay sales for goats and horses. All of our income is put back into the farm to cover the cost of equipment, land taxes, feed and care for our animals, fuel, electric, and labor (ours is donated) - all to preserve this open space for future generations. There is no profit in farming - if we had the funds we'd start a non profit because that is what we are! We are grateful for the life we have chosen because it is rich in ways beyond monetary - nature, animals, nutrients, children outdoors having fun, and members that become friends.
What are some of the member benefits?
As a member, you have a real interest in the farm - including helping to preserve the land and ecosystems. You have input and can request something be grown specially for you if we don't grow it already. And because you pay upfront - you reap the rewards of a more fruitful and bountiful harvest! Many more benefits are listed here:
- If you are unable to come to the farm - we can deliver at no extra charge
- when you join you will get a shopping list to keep track of your choices
- your membership is only $195 but you get back $220 in value
- there is BIG savings on our fresh veggies - a $10 veggie basket is the size of a laundry basket! Choose a smaller $4 basket also.
- Also, choose so many other great food items from local farmers and artisans - cheese, bread, pizza, eggs, honey, syrup, yogurt...the list goes on!
- communicate your choices by picking in our fields, via email or my cell phone for members
- your freezer will be stocked with great prepared veggies, meals, and pizza for the winter months!
How do we Join?
Send in your contact info with check payable to Progressive Advisors by March 31st!
