Community-supported agriculture. Farmers markets. Pick-your-own. So many options for buying local foods. Here’s how to make sense of it.

Community-supported agriculture (CSA):
Think of a CSA program as a buying club, but with unique benefits. In a CSA program, farmers or ranchers offer seasonal shares in their farms’ harvests and products. Consumers can buy a share and then receive a box of food from the producer at regular intervals throughout the season.

CSA programs are individually managed by the farm or producer, so each program is unique in its offerings. Even though each program is different, the CSA concept is a win-win for everyone involved. CSA members can meet their food producers and visit their CSA farms during the season. And the farmers and food producers can guarantee buyers for their products before the season starts, which gives them more time to spend caring for their fields and livestock. Local Harvest.org has information about what to consider when selecting a CSA program. Be sure to visit Go Local to find CSA listings in your community.

Farmers Markets:
If you love to explore and discover new foods, farmers markets are the place to be. The number of communities hosting farmers markets is increasing, which means it’s becoming easier to buy directly from farmers. Many markets are seasonal, starting in the spring and lasting into the late fall months, while other markets run throughout the year. Regardless of the season, market vendors have new items to sell every week and can tell you how the food was grown as well as provide ideas for how to prepare it. DRY’s Go Local page has information about finding your nearest farmers market.

Pick-Your-Own:
Want to be in charge of picking the perfect peach? Pick-your-own or U-pick farms allow you to harvest vegetables, fruit or flowers with your own hands, and often for a lower price. If you need a large quantity of raspberries to make jam or freeze for the winter months, a U-pick outing with several friends can make quick work of berry harvesting. Check out Go Local for resources on finding U-pick farms in your area.

Local products in co-ops and grocery stores:
You may have noticed signs in your grocery store advertising the availability of local products. Many stores are offering locally produced food and often provide information about the farm or producer. Look for signs promoting local products or ask the store manager which products are from your community.