Support local farms with these five Indianapolis-area CSAs
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Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios
Spring is in the air and, even if it's a fake out, it has us thinking about spring produce.
Why it matters: This is the time to sign up for a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program.
The big picture: The idea behind CSAs is simple. You pay a set price, either weekly or ahead of a growing season, and collect your locally grown, farm-fresh produce on a schedule.
- It allows you to support local farmers by sharing in the bounty and risk of farming by agreeing to pay upfront for whatever is grown throughout the season.
Zoom in: Here are five local CSAs you can sign up for now.
This Henry County farm offers an eight- or 16-week CSA for pickup in Fortville, New Castle or delivery for an extra fee.
How it works: There are three sizes and prices start at $220 for eight bi-weekly deliveries — $27.50/box.
An urban food initiative with two farms in the city, Soulfood Project Indy offers a weekly veggie box with pickup on Thursdays at Soulfood's Sheldon Street or Irvington farm.
How it works: You can pay in full or by the week and prices are based on income level, from $200 to $300 for the season or $10-$20/week.
- Boxes contain between 6-10 items depending on the season and usually contain a leafy green, root crop, herbs and other seasonal veggies.
Teter Organic Farm is an outreach mission of Noblesville First United Methodist Church that grows about 40 different vegetables, offering an eight- or 16-week CSA for pickup in Noblesville beginning in June.
How it works: There are three sizes and prices start at $320 for eight full-size bi-weekly deliveries or 16 small weekly deliveries.
- You can also pay by the week for an extra $2/box.
This Delaware County farm offers a 12- or 24-week CSA for pickup at the farm in Selma or Pendleton Farmers Market.
How it works: There are three sizes and prices start at $396 for 12 bi-weekly deliveries — $33/box.
Schacht offers a monthly meat share — a 15-pound package of chicken and beef, with an option for pork, too.
How it works: Pickup each month is at the Broad Ripple markets.
- Shares last three months and start at $430. You can add eggs for an extra cost.
- The deadline to sign up is May 15 for the summer share, Aug. 15 for the fall share and Nov. 15 for the winter share.