Growing your community-supported agriculture (CSA) program and attracting some top-notch, long-term members is challenging. But there are ways to find ideal CSA members for your farm, and knowing the best places to look is a great start. Use these tips to bring in reliable CSA members and improve your farm.
Ask Your Neighbors
Ideal CSA members are closer than you realize. Don’t overlook your neighbors. Those friendly folks living nearby might be as passionate about supporting local farmers as you are about growing food.
Visit for a chat, offer a basket of your farm-fresh goodies, or host a neighborhood get-together on your land. By personally connecting with those who live near your farm, you establish trust and lay the foundation for committed CSA relationships with those interested.
Talk to Current Members
Sometimes the best resource for more CSA members is on your farm grounds. When you start a successful CSA on your farm, your existing members may lead to other opportunities for attracting more people.
Your current CSA members are excellent ambassadors for attracting new like-minded people to join the fold. Encourage them to bring their friends and family members for a farm tour.
Let guests pick their produce, feel the dirt between their fingers, and bask in the glory of your sustainable farm for a memorable experience. With some luck, word of mouth will help grow your CSA family tree, one membership at a time.
Look Into the People You Know
There’s nothing more powerful than enthusiasm, and as a farmer passionate about their CSA, it’s time to wear your heart on your sleeve. Remain confident when discussing your CSA with anyone you cross paths with.
Share your success stories and upcoming events on social media newsletters, and tell every local restaurant and grocery store in town. These businesses may help you find the ideal CSA member for your farm through their connections to the public.
Search in the Local Market
Local markets and green events are prime meeting grounds for attracting potential CSA members. Set up a booth showcasing your beautiful produce and educational materials about your farm and CSA program.
Offer free samples of your sun-kissed tomatoes or other produce, and engage passersby in conversations about your sustainable farming practices. Building relationships at these gatherings will slowly grow your fanbase and, eventually, a larger CSA.
With these tips, you’ll know how to seek out those ideal CSA members and create an excellent farm community. Remember to maintain a vibrant farm life, keep communication channels open, and signal that your farm is a treasure trove waiting for people to discover it.
