Wahlert Growing Roots CSA: A Community-Supported Agriculture Program in Conjunction with ReEvolution Farms

What is a CSA?

CSA stands for Community-Supported Agriculture, a model that creates a direct relationship between local farmers and consumers. Members of a CSA program "subscribe" to a share of the farm's produce for a season. In return, they receive regular deliveries or pick-ups of fresh, seasonal crops grown locally. This system allows farmers to have a reliable customer base while providing consumers with access to fresh, sustainable food. It also fosters a stronger sense of community by connecting people to the source of their food.

Why Did Wahlert Start a CSA?

At Wahlert Catholic High School, the CSA program, called Wahlert Growing Roots, was created as part of the Urban Agriculture initiative, led by Korrin Schriver.

The goal of this program is twofold:

1. Education: Students at Wahlert engage in hands-on learning, spending time at the farm and the indoor grow space on Central Ave where they can learn about sustainable farming practices and food production.

2. Community Engagement: By offering a CSA, Wahlert’s Urban Agriculture program helps build a direct link between local, high-quality food and the surrounding community. The CSA provides fresh, healthy produce while allowing students to be part of a local food system and support sustainable farming.

Wahlert's CSA program started with 4 subscriptions in year one, to allow students to learn how to plan crop rotations, pack boxes in a timely manner, and manage customer relations through email and recipes.

How Did Wahlert Get Members?

To attract customers to the CSA, Wahlert promotes the program through various channels, including its weekly newsletter and social media. Members sign up through a simple Google form, which allows them to order a seasonal box of produce, delivered every other week from June to October. There is even an option to add on extras like eggs and microgreens, which are provided by ReEvolution Farms. This ordering process makes it simple and convenient for customers to engage with the CSA.

CSA Offerings and Layout

The Wahlert Growing Roots CSA offers a range of fresh, seasonal produce, packaged into convenient box options. These include:

• Large Box: Includes 8 items for $30

• Small Box: Includes 5 items for $20

In addition to the basic boxes, customers have the option to add on extras such as:

• 1 Dozen Eggs for $4

• 1 Container of Microgreens for $5

Ordering Process

1. Choose Your Box: Select either a small or large box depending on your needs.

2. Add Extras: Optionally, add eggs, microgreens, or other available add-ons to your order.

3. Submit Your Order: Complete the Google form to submit your order. This form also allows customers to sign up for notifications about when new boxes are available.

4. Pick Up & Recipes: When you pick up your box, you’ll receive a selection of fresh produce, often with recipes included to help you make the most of your CSA items. Some recipes are also available directly on the website for easy access.

Conclusion

The Wahlert Growing Roots CSA is a great opportunity for students, faculty, and the surrounding community to connect with local, sustainable agriculture. By supporting this program, members not only get access to the freshest produce but also contribute to the educational experience of Wahlert’s students, who are learning the value of farming, sustainability, and community engagement. Whether you're looking to enjoy fresh seasonal produce or support a local initiative, Wahlert’s CSA has something for everyone! Sign-up for next season will take place in March, so be on the lookout for a chance to participate and support the Growing Roots CSA!