I’m a firm believer that one of the most important choices that you make each is day is the decision of what to eat. It seems simple but when you really think about it, all those small choices add up. They can have a profound impact on the environment, your local economy and your health. So why not put some thought into what you’re eating and where it comes from? Find food choices that support the kind of community and environment that you want to see.

For these reasons, I started eating more local food a few years ago, visiting farmer's markets in and around Ottawa-Vanier.  This year, I decided to go a step further and join a CSA. In Community Supported Agriculture you buy a ‘share’ of what the farm will produce over the growing season. Usually you have the option of paying the entire amount upfront or paying in a few instalments over the growing season. This system is a huge help to farmers because they need to invest in seeds and equipment long before they get their first crop to sell. It also takes away some of the risk. Weather variability can drastically impact crop yields from season to season making it very hard for the farmer to count on a reliable and consistent income. This system supports family farms and also makes it much easier for farms to switch to organic methods because they have the money available upfront to make the necessary changes. By joining a CSA you're supporting your local economy and Ontario farmers.

It turns out that CSAs are great for the consumer as well. I find that the CSA works out to be a great value. We get much more than we could get for a comparable amount at the grocery store or farmer’s market, and the quality of the produce can’t be beat. The produce is usually picked the same day it is delivered to Dave and I in Sandy Hill. (I’m sure you can’t say that about the stuff at the grocery store!).

There are also the added benefits that it forces us to eat more veggies and cook more meals at home.

I'll admit, it can be challenging at times. Especially if you are new to eating local, there will be a few weeks where you just don’t know what to do with the unfamiliar produce that shows up. But with some googling and experimenting you’ll be able to find something to do with it.

Visit my food blog for some recipes ideas featuring local produce from my CSA bin.