Frequenting farmers markets is a great way to get delicious local produce. But this season, why not step up your commitment to local farmers by joining a CSA?

Think of it as a seasonal partnership. At the beginning of the growing season, members pay up-front for a share of a farm's fruits, vegetables, and other products (like eggs and cheese). Farmers then deliver weekly or every-other-weekly baskets to community drop-off centers around Seattle, where members pick them up. Many farmers even invite members to tour their farms.

The arrangement benefits both sides: More than 70 Washington farms are guaranteed markets and fair prices for their products, and consumers have convenient, reliable access to the freshest foods available.

And the environment also wins. Buying locally and reusing baskets or canvas bags for deliveries reduces transportation and packaging waste. And by supporting small organic farms, which often produce a variety of crops, CSAs promote local biodiversity and healthy farming methods.

Many people find that CSAs inspire better eating, too. Receiving a varied mix of seasonal organic produce means more--and different--fruits and vegetables will find their way to your plate. And while heirloom cucumbers and peachcots might be unfamiliar, many deliveries include weekly recipes.

To suit varied budgets and tastes, most CSAs offer several delivery sizes, and some customers choose to split subscriptions with neighbors or family members. Tiny's Organic offers full- and half-season options, and Full Circle Farm has a flexible membership program, including pay-as-you-go options. Jubilee Farm offers subscriptions for as few as six weeks. For fungi-loving palates, there's even a local mushroom-only CSA.

Commitment-shy? Grocery delivery companies like Pioneer Organics offer lots of seasonal choices from local farms. 

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