Community supported agriculture (CSA) describes a relationship between farmers and the people they feed.  Most CSA farmers use organic or biodynamic growing practices that enhance the health of the soil and take great pride in growing flavorful varieties and fresh food that is free of artificial inputs. Customers, or members, pay a fee in advance and receive a “share of the harvest,” or a minimum amount of produce and other farm products (flowers, dairy, eggs, meat) at a fixed price.
Some CSAs include their members in farming activities, administrative work, marketing, or other tasks. The amount of produce in a share varies widely, as do the offerings and the details of the arrangements.  Members typically receive a weekly mix of items that peaks in variety and weight in mid-season.  Most CSAs deliver bags or boxes to a drop-off site, though some offer on-farm distribution and more choice in their selections.
Here is a listing of CSAs in the Shepherdstown area.
Blue Mountain Farm CSA; Knoxville, Md.; (240) 422-9207; Shepherdstown delivery. Cost:  $450.
Growing practices: Organic methods, not certified.
Farm Fresh 4 You; Martinsburg; 274-6265; Shepherdstown and Martinsburg delivery. Growing practices:  Certified organic. Cost: Call for prices for 3 levels.
Fresh and Local CSA; Shepherdstown; 876-3382; www.freshandlocal.com; info@freshandlocal.com; Shepherdstown and Metro Washington, D.C delivery. Growing practices:  Biodynamic. Cost:  $450.
Mountain View Farm; Purcellville, Va.; (540) 668-7640; sdewitt@blueridgecenter.org; On-farm pick-up only. Growing practices:  Sustainable organic methods, not certified. Cost:  $420 for vegetables, additional costs for flowers and meat.
Redbud Organic Farm; Inwood; 229-7222; www.redbudfarm.com; redbudfarm@earthlink.net; Charles Town, Martinsburg, Shepherdstown delivery. Growing practices: Sustainable organic methods, not certified. Cost: $420.