CSA
The community supported agriculture (CSA) model began in the 1970s with black horticulturalist, regenerative agricultural pioneer and small farm advocate, Booker T. Whatley. By paying up front for farm products received throughout the season, CSA members are investing in the farm and helping to cover the costs of seeds and other inputs when income is lean. It is an honor to continue the CSA model, and other practices championed by Whatley at Root Digger.
2023 Fresh Herb CSA - SIGN UP CLOSED FOR 2023
This CSA is designed to be approachable for the herbal curious while providing new experiences for more seasoned herbalists with vibrant herbs picked fresh from the farm. Members receive one share per month for 6 months (May - October). Shares will be delivered to a local neighborhood location for pick up (in Seattle or Olympia). Each share includes 3 to 5 varieties and comes with information on working with them. You will receive 24+ of our favorite varieties throughout the season. Herb quantities vary by variety but you can expect 1/4 to 1/2 pound for flowers, and 1/2 to 1 pound for tops and roots. It takes about 5 oz of fresh herb to fill a pint mason jar for a 2:1 tincture.
A June share might look like:
1/2 lb Calendula
1 lb Milky Oats
1 lb Skullcap
1/2 lb Anise Hyssop
Because diversity is vital to the biology of our farm, we applied this principle to our information ecology as well - our recipes and herbal profiles come from several (mostly) local herbalists who bring their unique approach to exploring wellness and connection with plants.
Alternative shares:
Are you interested in participating but don't have space to process this much medicine? We are considering offering a share that combines a minimal quantity of easy-to-use fresh herbs with farm-grown products (dried herbs, teas, fire cider, etc.) Let us know in your CSA sign up form if you would be interested in this type of share!
Pick Up
Share will be available for pick up during the third week of each month May-Oct.
Seattle Pick-up will be third Friday, location TBD
Olympia pick up is on third Saturdays at the West Central Park Farmer's Market
Sliding Scale
To increase accessibility this CSA is offered on a sliding scale ($210-$390). We invite you to use your income as a starting point and then evaluate other circumstances affecting you access to resources to navigate to a place on the scale that feels right for you. If you're a higher income earner, paying what you can ensures that we can continue to offer affordable participation to all. Thanks to Hadassah Damien for providing a helpful discussion of this topic.
Consider paying less if you(r):
Will experience hardship paying the full price
Have kids or other dependents
Have no savings
Have significant debt relative to your income
Have missed work due to physical or mental health
Family has little or no assets
Have medical expenses not covered by insurance
Are an unpaid community organizer
Have immigration related expenses
Are an elder on limited income
Have been denied work due to incarceration history
Use government assistance programs
Identity has affected your income or education
Have limited access to transportation
Consider paying more if you(r):
Travel recreationally
Own a home
Own or lease a car
Have a stable career and expect your income to increase
Debt does not hinder you from attaining basic needs
Go out for coffee, meals, drinks weekly or more
Have investments, retirement, or inheritance
Have access to family income/support in times of need
Have the education and opportunities earn more than you do but chose to work less