Chagfood is now taking on new Members for the 2011-2012 season. Chagfood is a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) scheme which was launched in March 2010 and has since been providing 25 local households with a weekly supply of ecologically-produced, seasonal vegetables.
This year we are expanding and have a limited number of large shares available. Large shares are suitable for those who love a good supply of fresh seasonal veg, either a couple or a family,and are priced at £600 per year, or £150 quarterly. All shares are based on an estimate of 40-weeks supply throughout the growing season, beginning in June and ending in February.
Chagfood is not simply a veg-box scheme, its a new approach to buying fresh food which involves consumers in the risks and rewards of farming. Members are buying a “share” of what is ready to harvest on the field each week and and take an active interest in where their food is grown and how it is produced. As a result you will quickly become aware of what is in season in each particular week, how the weather affects your crops and what it is like to taste truly local, fresh produce. Chagfood hosts an open day on the field on the last Saturday of each month where Members are encouraged to come along and meet each other, see how their vegetables are growing and help out with seasonal tasks, this is also an opportunity to share in the rewards of the farm.
As well as the rewards that come from being part of a local food scheme members are also sharing in the risks of the farming year. If it is a good season for a particular crop, you can enjoy a bumper harvest, if however crops are lost due to pests or we are unable to harvest due to the weather, members share this loss between them.
Although CSA is a new approach to buying fresh produce for most people, existing Members have found the first year of the scheme surprisingly rewarding. Here are some of their comments:
- “Chagfood has completely refreshed my understanding of what local food is about” -
- “Its so much more than just going to the supermarket” -
- “We have extended our cooking repertoire though being shareholders” -
- “People of all ages can have fun and find useful things to do on open days – even oldies like us!” -
- “Throughout the season it has been incredibly good value for money” -
Chagfood shares are still available but are selling fast. If you would like to subscribe, or find out more about the scheme, please drop us an email; chagfood@gmail.com or give us a call on 07858 381539, or 07908 683401.
