Lancaster Farm Fresh. Farm Co-Op operations.

Did you ever wonder how farm co-ops work?  Are you not a gardener but would love to buy local farm goods directly from the farmers?  Prefer to eat seasonal foods?  Farm co-ops are growing and growing throughout the country.  I recently had an opportunity to meet with a very fast-growing farm co-op in my own local town but wait… there’s a twist.  They are growing and offering residents and restaurants an opportunity to buy locally, right from the farmer.
I met with Courtney two weeks ago over coffee/tea.  We discussed food, farmer’s, growing food that both respects the earth and the ultimate consumer.  Eating food that is in season.  Lancaster Farm Fresh just sounded perfect. They work with over 300 local farmers and deliver food boxes to co-op customers to over 6000 customers/businesses in PA/NY/NJ/MD/DE.  Gah!  I had to share how awesome a co-op program is and how they work.

Frequently asked questions?  Click here.  

As you can see, my box was filled with wonderful goodies.  Dandelion greens, edamame, Roma tomatoes, purple potatoes, red leaf lettuce, baby eggplant and cucumbers.  

What is a CSA?
Community Supported Agriculture, or CSA, is a produce subscription program wherein individuals/families/businesses can purchase a weekly share of the harvest, which allows that person or family to participate in the season’s harvest and receive vegetable items appropriate to the season as weeks progress.

All of the information you ever wanted to know about a CSA from farmers to seasonal items you can expect are outlined here. 

Pricing and options are outlined here.

Now every CSA operates a little differently but with the same mission.  Many also offer meat, dairy, flowers CSA’s as well as products they make themselves.  I have been wanting to share a post with everyone, even if you don’t live in the states I outlined, and encourage you into looking at your local CSA options.  They are a wonderful way to gain exposure to new veggies and fruits that are grown locally.  New recipes are always provided and let’s face it… eating more veggies and fruit are just a better way to fuel your body.

It’s been a really hectic and fun week but I wanted to recap my fitness here before my new week starts tomorrow.  This past week was my last higher mileage week with my final 20ish mile run.  I have to admit that I will, for now, miss my 3-4 hour runs.  I’ve gotten to really enjoy them.

Sunday: 14 miles (trails)
Monday: 6 treadmill miles, strength, core, abs.
Tuesday: 10 miles (outdoor)
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: 20 outdoor miles
Friday: 5 miles (treadmill)

That’s it from here.  Hope you all check out your local CSA options and if you’re in the northeast… check out my friends over at Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-Op.

— Knead to Cook