Go ahead, buy the farm

You don't have to be an environmentalist to have noticed all the press GREEN initiatives have been getting lately. You've likely heard about (or have seen) Gore's movie, read about the push for ethanol and the ensuing controversy regarding corn prices, and/or participated in some sort of earth friendly endeavor...recycling, driving a hybrid, bicycling to work etc.

If you're looking to be more green--in more ways than one--consider participating in a CSA. Not only will you up your organic produce intake, but you will also be buying local which is very environmentally friendly. Buying local (among other things) helps reduce food shipping costs, which according to LocalHarvest averages 1,500 miles per fresh grown product.

What's a CSA you ask? CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. If you want the long definition click this link to wikipedia. Basically, by participating in a CSA, one can buy a share of a farm's crop. It's a way for John Doe athletic-minded traveler to gain access to, and support, a local farm.

FYI, in our Eat Well section of the site, we list farmers' markets along with other healthy yet hearty meal options.

Now, I have to be honest. While we do recycle, try to limit our "Hollywood" showers, and generally attempt to be responsible, non-wasting, citizens, we do own an SUV, diaper our daughter with disposables, and are likely guilty of many other environmental sins. So, the whole buy local benefit (and supporting ecologically responsible farming methods) of participating in a CSA is gravy to getting seasonal, farm-fresh, certified organic produce every other week.

Local Harvest is a useful resource for finding a program. Simply enter your zip code, and if there is something in your area, it'll likely show up here. In San Diego we have several CSA options. And many cities will have their own websites listing options. (In San Diego, this is another CSA resource.) We chose Be Wise Ranch because it is a certified organic farm, offers program flexibility (small or large box; every or every other week), AND most important, the pick-up spot and time are super convenient!

I just filled out the form and sent in my money, so I can't yet comment on the product...

** EDITOR NOTE: Click here for another CSA related post