Southern Roots Organics have chosen Wednesday 1st March, National Community Supported Agriculture day, to launch the first Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project in Dorset. This exciting new project represents a significant development in local food and brings a model that is gaining popularity around the UK and the rest of Europe to Dorset for the first time.
Southern Roots Organics run a market garden on 2 acres of land rented from Lower Hewood Farm in West Dorset. In addition to supplying local cafes, restaurants and pubs they are now offering 25 households within 10 miles of the farm the opportunity to buy a ‘share of the harvest’ for the 2017 growing season.
Throughout March, Southern Roots Organics is running a crowdfunder to raise £5000 for essential start up costs, materials and infrastructure (see below).
Adam Payne and Dee Butterly who runthe project explain what the CSA model is all about:
“We are excited to launch this CSA and look forward to developing the model in Dorset. By committing to support us for the growing season, members help make farming a more financially secure and enjoyable occupation, allowing young growers like ourselves to make a start and earn a living.”
“For Farmers a Community Supported Agriculture schemeoffers a more predictable and secure income, lower risksand stronger relationships with the people who eat our produce.In return members get fantastic quality vegetables at a fair price, and a relationship to the people and land that produce their food.”
“Customers will pay £480 for 32 weeks of veg boxes between mid-June and the end of January, receiving a big box of fresh vegetables every week. All produce is grown by Southern Roots Organics, and most of it is harvested on the day of delivery. The contents of the boxes will vary according to what is in season but will typically include 9 – 10 varieties of produce, from spuds and leeks to salads, squash and tomatoes. Boxes will be available from the farm, in Beaminster and in Bridport.”
Southern Roots Organics are seeking to raise £5000 for essential equipment, materials and infrastructure. People can donate via www.crowdfunder.co.uk/community-supported-agriculture
Southern Roots Organics expect the boxes to sell out quickly and encourage people who are interested to sign up via email or their website: www.southernrootsorganics.org / [email protected]
