Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) 2013
The Sycamore Spring Farm CSA is a project of passion and love for our "Farm Family" members, our Animal Friends and our Planet. We purpose to become a model for Sustainable Living and Educational Outreach to the LOCAL Community.
Sycamore Spring is a small working "homestead" type farm where we raise over 60 different varieties of fruit, vegetables, and herbs alongside free range beef, lamb, goats and poultry. Our “Better than Organic” naturally grown products are grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, with an emphasis on soil health, conservation and permaculture.
Membership in the SSF/CSA is available to like-minded folks who pledge in advance to cover the farms expenses to produce their "share" of the farm's produce. These CSA supporters/members understand that farming can be risky and that there is no guarantee of bumper crops. They know the benefits and risks and believe in the importance of preserving the small, artisan farmer who genuinely cares about achieving superior nutritional quality of heirloom and heritage foods while restoring the health and welfare of our planet. Members also experience common bonds of connecting with the land, the farm and a farmer of integrity that produces their food.
CSA Members contribute their financial and/or physical support to the farm, understand the inherent risks of crop failures and in return receive the following privileges:
* Weekly produce pickup: a choice assortment of seasonal, natural farm grown produce.
* Access to wholesome farm produced eggs, poultry, meats, goats milk soaps, jams, baked goods, etc. at reduced member prices.
* Pick-your-own (as nature provides): berries, cherries, cherry tomatoes, grapes, flowers, herbs, and seasonal surplus items.
* Farm tours and access/use of cook-out & picnic areas for family & friends.
* Annual picnic, farm festival and other community events
* Free Educational food preparation and preservation information.
* Seasonal newsletters. March, June & September Issues.
* Monthly harvest recipe cards.
Visit.... a simpler way of life! Convenient to Interstate Routes 70 & 270, we're closer than you ever dreamed.
The farm is a unique place seeming to take you back to a simpler time. Many remember similar feelings from their childhood visits to a family or neighbor farm. Others experience it for the first time here at Sycamore Spring. Members are encouraged to enjoy the homestead atmosphere and observe the simple gardens and animal antics. Volunteers are welcome to help with harvesting, planting, weeding or other farm chores. CSA pickup is also a nice time to visit and chat with other “farm family” members. Remember the Farm is only OPEN on Wednesday, Friday & Saturday.
Is it a good deal?
Yes! On average-over the course of the growing/harvest season we beat retail “organic” or “health food store” prices by 35-45%. Plus, our produce is grown locally and picked fresh for you, right out of the garden. Most years we estimate members have received over 300 lbs of product...that averages out to about $1.98 lb. Now that is a GREAT DEAL!!!
Do you sell elsewhere? No, we only offer our product through our Farm Store or CSA program.
What sort of produce will I get?
We like to focus on heirloom varieties of well-liked vegetables and fruits, and occasionally introduce members to unique culinary delights. Volume and variety vary with season, but you can expect;
Spring: Low volume; cool season greens, radish, spinach, spring onions, asparagus, chard, parsley
Late spring: mixed greens, carrots, peas, berries, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, sour cherries, basil, strawberries
Summer: High volume; tomatoes, green-beans, melons, cucumbers, new potatoes, squash, peppers, okra, eggplant, onions, garlic, peaches, corn
Fall: Winter squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes, figs, onions, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, collards, turnips, apples, & pears. We provide lettuce and salad items throughout the season (weather permitting). Produce is always fresh!
What about vacations, do I loose my Share that week?
You'll like these options:
1. Share your share ~ Think about giving your share to a friend, co-worker or neighbor that you really like. You will be greatly appreciated when you share your share-and your farm for a day.
2. Donate that week ~ We'll deliver it to our local soup kitchen. Just let us know when you won't be around.
3. Keep it ~ Receive extra produce over the next three pick-up weeks. Receive a third extra produce, over the next three pick-ups and get caught up from your "missed" pick-up while you were away.
How does it work?
Review the Membership form, from the sign-up page of this website. Choose your share option(s) and pick-up day (Friday 2:00pm-8:00pm or Saturday 8:00am-2:00pm) and mail us your form and payment. You will then be entered into the Members DBase and sent a confirmation email along with your Members ONLY passcode to access the seasons newsletters on our website. Then....we’ll see you at the farm!
The 30 week, 2013 CSA program runs May thru November and this year, we continue to offer you a variety of share selections including our full season 30 week program, the mid season "Bountiful Harvest" Program and the Ever Popular Monthly Pick-up Share.
Think about adding Egg and Beef shares to your plan and save a lot of $$$$$ over the season. Details on the Sign-up page.
Scottish Highland Beef-Now available year round, our 30lb Variety Pack of all natural, "Better than Organic" Heritage Highland Beef includes an assortment of steaks, roasts, ground and stew beef PLUS soup bones for that delicious, nutritious stock we're always talking about. Remember highland beef is a leaner, healthier, finer grained beef that you will rave about. A convenient size that will easily fit into most freezers. ONLY $275.00 (Member Price is $245.00).
We also sell our beef by the half and quarter...call for current availability/pricing. (Members pay .50 per pound less)
If you are interested in becoming a Sycamore Spring Farm CSA Family Member for 2013-Please proceed to the CSA sign up information page on this web-site for further details. Print out the membership application and send it in with your payment. Any Questions-just call 301-788-6980. THANK YOU for Supporting LOCAL, Sustainable, small family farming!!
