What is a CSA?

NOTE: CSA enrollment has reached the target number for 2008 and we are not accepting additional subscriptions at this time. We are assessing the quantities of vegetables growing in the field to see if there are enough for any additional CSA subscribers this year. If you are interested in being notified if additional CSA shares become available, let us know by email at CSA@greenearthinstitute.org.

Community-Supported Agriculture, or CSA, is an arrangement that provides a direct connection between consumers and a local farmer. Participating supporters contribute to the farm's yearly operating budget by purchasing in advance a share of the season's harvest. By making this commitment ahead of time, CSA shareholders join the farmer in assuming the costs, risks and rewards of growing that season's crops. Shareholders help pay for seeds, supplies, labor, water, equipment maintenance, and other costs. In return, the farm provides a weekly box of fresh, nutritious vegetables throughout the harvest season.

The Green Earth Institute CSA

We lease 50 acres of farm land at the McDonald Farm, owned by The Conservation Foundation, on the south side of Naperville. We grow 40 different vegetable and herb crops, selling the produce through our CSA. Planting starts in mid-February, and the harvest season runs for 20 weeks from mid-June until the end of October. Our CSA has been very popular, so we have expanded every year since we started; 2008 will be our sixth year.

Details and Sign-Up Form

Click 2008 CSA Brochure to view and print a PDF file with details and a sign-up form.

More about the Green Earth Farm

"Fresh Off the Farm" was a colorful description of the growing community-supported agriculture movement in the U.S. in the November 3, 2003 issue of TIME Magazine. Click here for some quotes.

Volunteers are invited to help with farm work such as planting, weeding, and harvesting. Contact us to let us know your availability and/or you can sign up to be notified by email when there are volunteer opportunities scheduled.