New Budding CSA / Farm to Table - What Would You Like To See Produced Organically, but Affordable to Buy? (EBT will be Accepted!)

Submitted by ArtByChristinaCheek t3_105jdyl in springfieldMO

We will be a new farmer-owned & grown CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farm/market outside of Springfield. The farm is in between Springfield and Mountain Grove, well within a 30-45 minute drive of both. We would like to reach out and see what the community would like to see grown (staples are a given like romaine lettuce, tomatoes, snap peas, etc., but what else? Different type? Flavor?)

Our plan is to offer produce boxes (think like HelloFresh or Misfits Market, only local!) with local delivery to your door if in the serviced location areas as an option, as well as shipping and farmstand pickup. There will also be tasty add-ons like a dozen fresh chicken eggs for just $2 or duck eggs for $4 (which are pasture-raised, organically fed & free ranged). Meats can also be purchased each season and picked up at the farm directly or at a local processor (pastured pork, chevon (goat), poultry - chicken, duck, goose, and turkey)*.

Our goal is to produce locally sustainable food utilizing organic, regenerative, permaculture, and conservation practices to ensure a healthy ecosystem, healthy and happy animals, and in turn, a better product for happier, healthier humans!

We Want To Help Meet Local Healthy Food Needs- So here are the questions:

  1. What do you see that is lacking in the local grocery area that we could help with? (types of produce, amounts, quality, etc.)
  2. Would that drive time (30-45 min) be too long for on-farm pickup for produce boxes, fresh cooking herbs & eggs, or would you rather have a delivery each week (Saturday, for instance) or meet at a designated farmstand each week closer to town?
  3. We currently have a small selection of rabbit meat available but would like to see if there is an interest in a larger production of meat rabbits (whether for personal consumption or for raw pet feeders) before increasing our current stock. (Sorry if this offends rabbit pet owners, we know they're cute but so are cows!)
  4. If you have EBT/SNAP - would you be more likely to buy fresh produce online or in person? (FYI - Online buying is now an option in MO!)

Thank you all!

Sincerely,

Christina Cheek

Lead Farmer - Good Food Farms

**Per state regulations, you can pick up meat products at the farm, or at the processor, but we cannot bring it to you without additional costs and inspections by the government."

requisite tags: -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

#csa #gardening #farming #farmtotable #regenerativefarming #permaculture #happyanimals #goodfoodfarms #springfield #Lebanon #MtnGrove #Missouri #MO #localfood #groceries #freshproduce

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CurlyCalico t1_j3c0num wrote

I would also be interested! I think my biggest thing would be size variations for the box. It’s just me and my husband and most CSA boxes are too big for us to use. We tried Misfits Market for a bit but half the food would go bad before we would use it. So a smaller box option would be awesome. I would also drive to get it.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dpc04 wrote

Thank you! Yes, we have been looking over what the appropriate sizes would be for small, medium, large, and a Feast box. If you find you're using less product than needed, you may look into cooking & freezing the rest for later. We will have recipes and tips on prolonging storage, etc., so you get the most out of your produce and that we all work to keep waste to a minimum! :D

Small boxes will contain 6-8 items from the fresh produce and if you want any add-ons like fresh eggs or our special herbal tea blends, will be combined with it on pickup, delivery, etc.

Do you think that amount of produce will work for your household? We also have a Volunteer for Veggies program in development so that if you find that you want a small box but can't use it all, you can choose to donate a portion that would go to feed those in food crisis.

Please feel free to join the newsletter for updates and we are on FB as well. https://mailchi.mp/8bdfaa74892e/get-the-free-newsletter

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snowbaby0413 t1_j3bxcth wrote

I'm in! I'd prefer to cut out the middle man and get fresher food. I'd drive the 30 minutes and am also interested in meat and rabbit.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dn9w5 wrote

Thank you for your input! We are looking at an old Amish farm to expand into and will let everyone know as soon as things are ready to go. If you'd like, please join the mailing list (not sp@m as we will only update for events, recipes, pickup, produce, etc.) for the farm, and you can also find us on FB - feel free to follow wherever you want to follow on SM. Here's the signup for the newsletter https://mailchi.mp/8bdfaa74892e/get-the-free-newsletter

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malevolentk t1_j3cdqab wrote

We have participated in the plant CSA at gooseberry bridge farm as well as the food CSA at urban roots

Urban roots has various sizes of shares you can buy and it’s my understanding that everyone just gets a percentage of what successfully grows (sort of like buying stocks but in a farm)

As a vegetarian I thought this was great - because we will eat all veggies - but for folks who are pickier or don’t like certain veggies it’s not so great. You can also put out a table for folks to leave veggies they know they won’t use for others to pick up who would.

I would recommend having both a CSA and a farm stand where people can buy what they want. If you need the CSA for the capital to get started then go for it - but make sure people know if it’s a bad growing season their shares will be small.

In a farm share I personally love things that are harder to grow in a back yard: corn, bell peppers, carrots are all hard for me for some reason and I end up buying from mama jeans

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3drlk3 wrote

Urban Roots does a fantastic job for sure! -- We would have an online form that would have the option to omit certain produce and replace it with a seasonally available alternative. We don't want to be dishing out onions to folks who are allergic to onions, for example! Ours will be like a share model, but outfitted to be more adjustable. What we do not sell in the produce boxes, such as excesses, can be sold at the markets. If anything doesn't sell and is still good for human consumption we will be donating those to a non-profit that helps people in food crisis. Whatever may end up in waste, will go back into the farm as compost or animal feed. We are 100% against food waste!

Please feel free to follow the farm page on facebook and join our newsletter https://mailchi.mp/8bdfaa74892e/get-the-free-newsletter

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malevolentk t1_j3jtcm7 wrote

I love this is becoming more popular!

It’s a great way for folks to get fresher food and to support local - I wish your venture the best of luck

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3q1dh2 wrote

I completely agree, with the farm location we may end up having to do deliveries as a subscription service or a meet and pick up at one of the farmstand or farmers market places due to overall costs of gas etc. Our aim is to keep our food as affordable as possible and not go into debt doing it 💪

Thank you!!

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zdiddy14MD t1_j3fcqxt wrote

Interested, will join your newsletter. Heirloom tomatoes are a must! A few different varieties of mushrooms could help you stand out in addition to the usual staples.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3fv6z2 wrote

I agree, heirloom tomatoes are already planned with a few different varieties in mind.

We are considering mushroom growing, but it may not be within the first year as a more commercial setup requires some tools we don't have just yet. We forage for our native growing ones each year, not just for morels but oysters, indigo milky's, corals, puffballs, maitake (hen of the woods), chicken of the woods, and wood ears (those jellied ones in Asian ramen). We were looking at lions mane and oysters as a first commercial crop if we did decide to go that way, so it's something to look forward to!

Thank you for signing up!

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Tough-Ad-9319 t1_j3cb60a wrote

I would be interested. All of the things you mention would be great except the rabbits...lol...I would totally make the drive or pick up at a farmers market. Is there a way to get on an email list, or do you have website? Facebook algorithms make it hard to get to the top of your feed, I feel. Smaller boxes for us empty nesters would be great also.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3drzub wrote

Ok, so no bunbun burgers, got it! XD

We are still working on the website at this time (we expect it to be done fully in a couple months), but even though we are on Facebook we do have a newsletter available here >> https://mailchi.mp/8bdfaa74892e/get-the-free-newsletter

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Tough-Ad-9319 t1_j3dvpbq wrote

Link does not work

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dwh2d wrote

Please try again, I apparently didn't have it published. I think it's fixed now.

https://mailchi.mp/8bdfaa74892e/get-the-free-newsletter

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Tough-Ad-9319 t1_j3dyl9n wrote

Thank you. Excited to have this resource.

Angela

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3e17up wrote

You're most welcome and we certainly appreciate the support! It will be a journey with lots of work, but we are excited to be on it!! gif

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azootdoottoot t1_j3egrg9 wrote

As you guys expand, if you're ever hiring- I'm interested! Currently working on a degree in Environmental Plant Sciences @ MSU and would love to work locally. Good luck!

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3fvhmh wrote

We have no doubt that we will have to expand and look for help as we grow. Currently, we are limited to just family at the moment due to expenses but please feel free to follow us and keep in touch, that's a wonderful degree and I am excited for you, way to go!! gif

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3fvxr9 wrote

Have you considered (if not doing so already) joining the volunteer opportunities that Amanda Belle's Farm (CSA) offers each year? I believe they also work with MSU students and the Springfield Community Gardens :)

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Ginger_bbw t1_j3eni7r wrote

I'm very interested in this.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3fvqiz wrote

Glad to hear it! Please feel free to follow the farm page on FB (GoodFoodFarmsMO) and join the newsletter. I also plan to post here on Reddit more often on it all. I posted the link to the sign-up in prior comments. :)

Do you have any suggestions on what you would like to see provided? Ideas? Problems we could solve VS retail grocery stores? TIA!

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Resident-Log6503 t1_j3heazk wrote

Was a member of another local csa but while it’s organic I don’t think they do much to keep pests away. Lettuce was often full of pests that had eaten most of the lettuce had quality issues with other products as well. I also found it was a lot of radishes beets turnips and things I didn’t like to eat. Most of the good stuff they had was sourced from other farms like the fruit. One thing I did like though was there was choice like it wasn’t a set thing every week that we didn’t have choice in so I didn’t have to get turnips and radishes. If it was a set choice with no options I would have never tried it. Also different sized boxes is helpful as every family has different needs. Delivery would be a nice option driving 40 mins I’d just end up going to the grocery store instead just no time for that.

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Resident-Log6503 t1_j3hfk2n wrote

Also wouldn’t be interested in meat or animal products (with the exception of cheese).

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3q3jof wrote

Yes, we are seriously looking into a good pricing model to deliver within the area. I'm sorry to hear about the quality of produce, though with organic regulations its very hard for growers to keep them away because it's limited to certain pest control options and what is exactly used.

With lettuces or anything really grown ground level like that, you will want to do a good wash. Going forward, to err on the side of caution, you can do as my grandma used to do & fill your sink with cold water, add a capful of white vinegar & about 1/2 cup salt and wash the lettuce or greens by gently scrubbing and rinsing them with your hands in bunches. (the pests will come off in the water). Then lay on a flat paper towel, use another paper towel to pat dry. This is more for the loose leaf lettuces and greens like collards, but it always came out pretty and tasty!

We are not certified organic, (the price tag on that is a bit high, but we will be seeking grant aide for it going forward) but do hold to the same practices. Weedkiller, fungicides, Etc. are all No-No's here! We are doing intercrop intensive planting with natural pest control options (encouraging pollinators and predator insects, like ladybugs, etc., planting trap crops and so on ) we also know that not all of our produce will be blemish free but we will do our best 💪 😉

As far as the animal products (for those interested) we will have some available as the seasons go on, but cheeses are regulated by the USDA and State Milk Board, there's a whole facility setup, approval, inspection, etc. and that's not something we are able to do financially.

Now, with Raw Goats Milk, that is something we can offer, especially if the bill moves past the Senate to allow raw milk sales for retail! 🤞🤞🤞

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Resident-Log6503 t1_j3qvxzx wrote

Thanks for the info. I do thoroughly soak and wash all lettuce with water and vinegar. The issue wasn’t that there were bugs on the lettuce which you get in grocery store lettuce too it’s that the pests had eaten a lot of the lettuce to the point of it being pretty inedible like I’d just get a few leaves per head that were ok. Like when you pay more than at the grocery store and it’s like that it’s disappointing. Like one head I’d get enough to garnish a sandwich rather than make a salad if that makes sense.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3rmdew wrote

OOOH! Oh, dear, yea... no that's chicken feed for us lol. I'm surprised they boxed it like that 😓

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Resident-Log6503 t1_j3rry7n wrote

I know me too. Sometimes their produce was good other times I’d be throwing half of it away which is frustrating given the cost and that you rely on items you are getting in your box for meal prep and then it’s no good. This year was worse then last I imagine the drought affected things but still…would rather get less of good quality than a lot of poor quality if that makes sense.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3rylnl wrote

Certainly understandable and that's something we will also keep in mind. Usually, if the harvest is that bad due to drought or the weather we can't control, a notice is sent about the produce updates, changes, etc., so folks are aware.

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Resident-Log6503 t1_j3rtn18 wrote

Some other things that would be helpful is the option to skip weeks eg if gone for vacation or something like that and to order a la carte if people don’t want to commit to an entire season. And an online system such as harvie for customizing boxes skipping weeks changing delivery location etc.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3ryups wrote

Is Harvie an integrated system? We have been looking for a better way to have a cart than just sign up for boxes, so customization is easier since the website is still underway.

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Low_Tourist t1_j3jxdmt wrote

You guys might look into the Ozark Farmer's Market at Finley Farms, too. They have a nice turnout every week, and isn't as chaotic as the FMO in Springfield.

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MotherofaPickle t1_j3mmn74 wrote

So far, I am really liking what I see.

We have a problem with picky eaters/produce going bad before we eat it, so different sizes of boxes would be great!

Any chance of offering lamb, even if it’s seasonal?

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3q206c wrote

Good to hear!

Definitely understand that, my youngest is so picky (mainly texture) on her veggies, she likes raw carrots, but not cooked, raw broccoli, not cooked, & dont let her catch a SINGLE sliver of onion or mushroom on anything or the whole thing has been contaminated according to her 🤣 though, if I blend it all up into a sauce she has no clue they're there. #momhacks

As for spoilage we will be giving out handy reference material to get the most out of your produce for the longest as we are 100% for no waste!

Lamb may be a possibility in the future depending on demand, currently we will have chevon though if you prefer lamb or only eat it due to kosher requirements, I understand.

It's always worth keeping in touch on, and I appreciate the feedback as well. It helps us plan ahead to meet food desires/needs of our community. Tyvm! 🤗

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MotherofaPickle t1_j3qxkla wrote

Ooooo…been looking (off and on) for a good source of chevon!

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3rmmat wrote

Awesome, I know we love a good curry with chevon meat! What's your favorite way to enjoy it? 😁

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Trixxxxxi t1_j3c8ngn wrote

That's a long drive for most people. If you're in EBT spending additional money on gas or delivery fees is asking a lot.
Will people on EBT be able to double up like they can at the farmers market? https://www.doubleupheartland.org/how-it-works/farmers-markets/

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dpxdx wrote

Yes, we will be joining the double-up for the farmstand produce. Our family has had to be in the EBT/SNAP program before and so we know how it works (with 3 growing kids no less!) and how challenging it can be to put healthy food on the table with very little they give, which is why we would like to have it as an option for those needing it. Also, with EBT/SNAP unless purchased online, we can only accept the payment at the time of pickup, which can be arranged at the farmstand or the farmers market to help reduce that extra cost as well.

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Trixxxxxi t1_j3dq2us wrote

That's great to hear.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dslnb wrote

The EBT situation is really the big push for us doing this. We went through a period of homelessness for a full 7 months 5 years ago. (FEMA flood back in Howell County took out our rental house) and I came up to Springfield looking for work living in the van we had at the time. Fast forward 5 years and we now own a home, 2 vehicles all paid off and are just getting the credit cards done with. So our main drive for the farm is to provide a better staple of local food that's more affordable, especially for those on EBT/SNAP because we have totally been there! (Plus be better in quality than that of Aldi's for example.)

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CloudofAmethyst t1_j3ca9uj wrote

Driving can be difficult for us currently given the state of vehicles, but could one hundred percent meet at a stand! My family goes through eggs pretty quick, and I personally love duck eggs!

We're bored with a lot of supermarket meats and produce selections, too! I love great lettuces and greens, which supermarkets always have a rather boring selection of.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3dqou2 wrote

Thank you for that! Yes, duck eggs should be more of a staple in our opinion. My son who can't eat chicken eggs, for instance, can eat duck eggs because of how the protein is a bit different to not flare the allergy and they make a fantastic binder for pastries & loaves of homemade bread!

Would you be more interested in the variety of baby green & mesculin mixes or maybe some with a blend of tasty young sprouts?

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Low_Tourist t1_j3e2ype wrote

YESSSS....No romaine (BOR-ING!!) but bring on the more exotic lettuces.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3e92sr wrote

Noted, thank you!! I personally like roasted romaine halves with olive oil and parmesan cheese, but I am super interested in these new green and red butterheads and the Cherokee Summercrisps.

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Low_Tourist t1_j3ftktb wrote

The people that used to have Eichigo Farms had a great mix of greens they sold. Some would be mild and sweet, some delicate, some kind of spicy. It was a nice addition to the field greens you can get at the store.

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j3fu0x7 wrote

Good to know! Hopefully, we can offer a good amount of field greens, fresh herbs, and sprouts to keep your tastebuds happy and dancing! gif

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ArtByChristinaCheek OP t1_j5slrg9 wrote

UPDATE:

Just sent our first newsletter out to everyone who has signed up, we really appreciate the support!

Currently, until we have the farm property acquired, we are working on expanding into some new varieties this year as well as the general staples. I would also like to make note that we intend to have custom spice blends available and are looking into the regulations regarding custom-seasoned whipped jars of butter. Also, don't worry, it's not just the mundane "garlic and herb" you see in the store - we got plans for those tastebuds!! gif

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