Farm Share Food Distribution Calendar 2024

Introduction

Farm share food distribution has become increasingly popular in recent years. This practice allows individuals and families to receive fresh, locally-grown produce on a regular basis. If you’re interested in signing up for a farm share in 2024, it’s important to know the distribution calendar so that you can plan accordingly.

What is a Farm Share?

A farm share, also known as a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, is a system where individuals or families pay a fee to a local farm in exchange for a share of the crops. This means that you’ll receive a box of fresh, seasonal produce each week or bi-weekly depending on the farm’s distribution schedule.

Why Join a Farm Share?

There are many benefits to joining a farm share. First and foremost, you’ll be supporting local agriculture and helping to sustain small farms. You’ll also have access to fresh, nutritious produce that is often picked that same day. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to try new fruits and vegetables that you may not have encountered before.

The 2024 Farm Share Distribution Calendar

The distribution calendar for farm shares in 2024 will vary depending on the farm. However, most farms will distribute produce from late spring through fall, with some extending into the winter months. Here is a general outline of what you can expect:

Spring

In the spring, you can expect to receive early season crops such as asparagus, rhubarb, and spinach. These crops are often harvested in April and May.

Summer

Summer is the peak season for farm share distribution. You can expect to receive a wide variety of produce, including tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, and corn. These crops are typically harvested from June through August.

Fall

In the fall, you can expect to receive crops such as apples, pumpkins, and squash. These crops are often harvested from September through November.

Winter

Some farms offer winter shares that extend into December or January. These shares often include storage crops such as potatoes, onions, and carrots, as well as cold-hardy greens like kale and spinach.

Question and Answer

Q: How much does a farm share cost?

A: The cost of a farm share varies depending on the farm and the size of the share. Typically, a share costs between $300 and $700 for the season. Some farms offer smaller shares for individuals or couples, while others offer larger shares for families.

Q: What if I don’t like a certain vegetable?

A: If you have a vegetable that you don’t like or can’t eat due to dietary restrictions, many farms offer the option to substitute it for a different vegetable. Some farms also offer the option to donate unwanted produce to a local food bank.

Q: How do I find a farm share near me?

A: There are many resources available online to help you find a farm share near you. LocalHarvest.org is a great place to start your search. You can also ask around at your local farmers market or co-op.

Conclusion

Joining a farm share is a great way to support local agriculture and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. By knowing the distribution calendar for 2024, you can plan ahead and get the most out of your farm share experience.