One of the best ways to eat well, seasonally, organically, and with a significantly lower carbon footprint overall is to join community-supported agriculture or a “CSA.” When you join a CSA, you’re purchasing a share of a local farm. Your share comes with a recurring box filled with food that has been grown and harvested at that farm. Some farms offer extra benefits to their members, such as events, tours, specialty items, or the opportunity to volunteer for a harvest or similar activities. The size of the box, the items and any perks included, and delivery options will vary based on the individual farm, so visit the “Action” link below to find and join a CSA near you.

By joining a CSA, you’re investing both in the farm and in your community, and “speaking with your wallet” about the kinds of food and food systems you want to see in the world. If you’re not ready to commit to a recurring delivery, but still want to support local agriculture, or if you’re just looking to stock up between CSA boxes, check out your local farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets are a great opportunity to not only find great-quality produce, but also to meet and talk to the farmers in your area.

Whether you receive your produce through a CSA, farmer’s market, or other means, make a conscious choice to embrace “imperfect” foods. Imperfect foods, such as oddly-shaped produce or produce with superficial marks, are just as nutritious and delicious as those on supermarket shelves; however, they are often overlooked or even thrown out by major retailers due to their looks. Some programs specialize in saving imperfect foods from the landfill, or you can speak with your local farmer about if they offer these imperfect foods for sale (some may even offer them at a discount). By choosing these “ugly” foods, you’re supporting a more sustainable and resilient food system.