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Perspectives from the Field: Adaptions in CSA Models in Response to Changing Times in the U.S

Author

Listed:
  • Diane Smith

    (Extension, Washington State University, Burlington, NJ 98233, USA)

  • Weiwei Wang

    (Center for Rural Studies, University of Vermont, Burlington, NJ 05405, USA)

  • Lisa Chase

    (Extension, University of Vermont, Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA)

  • Hans Estrin

    (Extension, University of Vermont, Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA)

  • Julia Van Soelen Kim

    (Cooperative Extension, University of California, Novato, CA 94947, USA)

Abstract

Representing three states in the United States, the authors describe approaches and practices of direct-to-consumer markets from their combined experience of 40 plus years of working with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), beginning in the early years of skepticism about the CSA model to the periods of rapid growth and optimism followed by today’s challenges regarding market saturation, competition from mainstream foods, complex logistics, and cultural disconnect. Through Cooperative Extension appointments in California, Vermont, and Washington, the authors have supported farmers as they have adopted CSA models and then adapted these models in response to changing consumer demand. This article examines the term and concept of CSA and how it has evolved in practice in different parts of the United States and at times been misused and co-opted for marketing purposes. We explore recent variations on the CSA model, including Farm Fresh Food Boxes (F3B), and discuss economic factors, marketing considerations, environmental stewardship, and community connections. The article concludes with projections for the future of CSA and the importance of maintaining authentic and beneficial relationships between farmers and consumers.

Suggested Citation

  • Diane Smith & Weiwei Wang & Lisa Chase & Hans Estrin & Julia Van Soelen Kim, 2019. "Perspectives from the Field: Adaptions in CSA Models in Response to Changing Times in the U.S," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(11), pages 1-15, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:11:y:2019:i:11:p:3115-:d:236667
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Marilyn Sitaker & Jane Kolodinsky & Weiwei Wang & Lisa C. Chase & Julia Van Soelen Kim & Diane Smith & Hans Estrin & Zoe Van Vlaanderen & Lauren Greco, 2020. "Evaluation of Farm Fresh Food Boxes: A Hybrid Alternative Food Network Market Innovation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(24), pages 1-25, December.

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