FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
Each growing season, more than 100 households participate in Greener Partners' CSA
programs. Members sign up in the winter for a weekly share of a seasonal
assortment of locally grown, freshly picked fruits and vegetables grown on our
farms. Payment is made up front, so that our farmers are able to purchase
compost, seeds, and other necessary supplies to begin the season.
How is your produce grown? Is it organic?
All of our produce is grown without the
use of chemicals or pesticides. Our growing methods are guided by organic
principles.
What is a Market Basket Share at Hillside?
We offer Market Basket Shares at Hillside Farm to ensure
maximum flexibility and choice for our members. In this system a large share is
divided into 10 parts, or units; a single unit might be a head of lettuce, a
bunch of carrots or a half dozen peppers. Rather than receiving a box of
produce, members assemble their own weekly shares based on preference from the
units offered. We will occasionally "assign" certain abundant produce items as
a unit in hopes that our members will view this as part of the cooperative
spirit of CSA membership.
What is a Longview Share?
The CSA at Longview blackboard will be located by the entrance to the Market. The blackboard will
list all available units that week. In this system a large share is divided into 10 parts, or units;
a single unit might be a head of lettuce, a bunch of carrots or a half dozen peppers. Rather than
receiving a box of produce, members assemble their own weekly shares based on preference from the
units offered. We will occasionally "assign" certain abundant produce items as a unit in hopes that our
members will view this as part of the cooperative spirit of CSA membership.
How do I sign up?
CSA registration begins each winter. Please visit our CSA Membership page to
download Agreement forms.
What is the duration of the CSA?
At Hillside Farm, our CSA season typically lasts 24 weeks, from the end of May
through mid-November. The season start and end dates may vary depending on the
weather patterns in a given season.
The Longview Farm season lasts 28-30 weeks, from approximately
late April until mid-November. Every week you will receive a share of just-harvested,
seasonal produce. Most CSAs, like the Hillside CSA, last 25-27 weeks; however, we will
begin in April with asparagus, carrots, lettuce mix & radishes.
Do you deliver CSA shares?
No. We believe one of the many benefits of CSA membership is
the ability to connect with our farmers and farmland and host our CSA pickups
at our Farm Hubs.
Do you offer Work Shares?
We offer work share arrangements at both Farms. Please email us for more information.
Can I change my pickup days? What if I go on vacation?
Members choose one pickup day for the entirety of the growing
season (every Tuesday, for example) and must pick up on the chosen day. Our
farmers are very busy growing, harvesting, and weeding and are unable to keep
track of pick up day changes. You also have the option of "sharing your share"
with friends, family or neighbors by having someone else pick up your share if
you are unable to.
What if I join and decide this isn't for me?
We are not able to offer refunds on CSA shares once the
season has begun. We advise members to find a friend, neighbor or family member
to take over their share for the remainder of the season. If you find yourself
with extra produce every week, we find that sharing the bounty is an effective
way to build community and find a home for all those greens. We are more than
happy to answer questions and discuss specific issues with you- ask a farmer or
email us!