Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CSA?
A CSA, Community Supported Agriculture, is a program where farmers offer subscriptions of weekly seasonal produce to customers. By participating in a CSA, customers become more committed to supporting local farms by supplying an income to the farm in the beginning of the season when seeds and other materials are purchased and utilized months before a first crop is harvested. This ensures a commitment to the farmers for the work involved, so as to preserve the sustainability of the growing season. It reduces the risk of debt to the farm, which can result in an increase of production due to ease of investment possibilities, such as a new piece of equipment of extra labor.

How does a CSA subscription work?
Members sign up in advance and agree to pay a designated amount in return for a share of the weekly harvest during the picking season. This can vary from year to year. The farmer then invests the funds into the farm, reducing the amount of debt the farmer may incur. Members pick up their share at a designated site during the harvest season.

What kinds of vegetables will be available?
Because every season is different, the variety of produce may change from season to season. A general list of produce that may be available is included in this brochure.

Are you organic?
No, we are not organic. We use a system of integrated pest management to reduce the use of sprays or fertilizers whenever possible to ensure healthy plants and flavorful vegetables. Our belief is that IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach which allows us to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible harm to people and the environment. Organic food production applies many of the same concepts as IPM, but limits the use of pesticides to those that are produced from natural sources, as opposed to synthetic chemicals. For more information about IPM, visit the following pages:
Wikipedia page on Integrated Pest Management
UCONN’s page on IPM

Are there any downsides to a CSA?
There are basically two. First, you cannot choose what you will be receiving in your weekly box. Any unwanted items can be given to a neighbor or a soup kitchen. Second, you generally have to plan your meals based on what is in your weekly box. We do not custom pack boxes, however, we can take orders for extra produce. Please call for more information.

What if there is something unwanted in the box?
In the event that you have something in your box that you can’t use, please feel free to share it with a friend or neighbor.

What if I go on vacation and can’t pick up my share?
Have a great trip! Work with us to plan an alternate venue for your share that week, or have a friend pick it up. We will also be happy to donate your box to a family in need, if requested in advance. We can not give refunds for unused boxes, as our prices are already reasonable.

Is there a refund policy?
We do not offer refunds under any circumstances. However, you may transfer your subscription. Simply contact us at least a week ahead of time to make necessary arrangements.

What if the crops fail?
We grow a wide variety of vegetables. The chance of everything failing is slim to none. In the event that a certain crop fails, we will do our best to make up for it with another vegetable. Additionally, we do multiple plantings of most crops, so you may get that vegetable at least once during the harvest season. Some things come in really well some years and not at all other years. That’s the way Mother Nature works.

Do I have to work on the farm as part of my membership?
Some CSA’s require additional involvement, but we do not. If you would like to help out and be more involved in the farm, we’d love your help. August is an especially busy time of planting, picking, and weeding. If you would like to work off your share, please let us know. We can make arrangements.

Why should I do this?
To provide your family with the freshest vegetables possible and to help a small farm stay in business.

What is my pick up time?
Your pick up schedule will vary based on your location. Please contact us if you are not certain what pick up site is best for you.

What if I have more questions?
Please email us at gazybrothersfarm@sbcglobal.net or call us at 203-723-8885.