Farm Subscriptions Offer Seasonal Eats

Food enthusiast Donna Roderick has discovered a plethora of incredible foods that cannot be found at farmers markets or in grocery stores.

Roderick subscribes to a local farm, and for twelve weeks this summer, she receives a weekly box of seasonal produce grown especially for her. Roderick belongs to the Custom Gardens Organic Farm CSA. Located in Silver Springs, the farm grows for more than 80 members. In addition to the staples of tomatoes, corn and summer squash, members might find green garlic, fresh ginger, sunchokes, red mustard or rhubarb. It's what Roderick likes best about the subscription.

"I love the surprise of it," Roderick said. "The anticipation - I never know what I will get. It really challenges me to learn to cook something new and try new things. And there's a newsletter in the box each week explaining what to do with the produce, how to cook it or how to store it."

Roderick said the best peaches, grapes and berries she has ever eaten came from Custom Gardens Farm. They are picked at their peak for ripeness and flavor and delivered within a day or two of harvest.

"The ginger is astonishing!" Roderick said. "Whoever would imagine that you can grow ginger in Nevada?"

Subscription farms, also known as CSAs or Community Supported Agriculture, were established in the late 1980s as a way for small farms to sell their produce directly to consumers. They quickly gained popularity as farmers and members discovered the many benefits, including the farmer-to-consumer relationship. Roderick said it's important to support local farms. She likes knowing her farmer and where her food comes from.

Farmers plant their crops according to what their members want, and they often add new varieties based on member requests. Subscription farms range in size from a few members to several hundred. Some offer produce only in the summer while others offer several seasons. A few farms provide beef, poultry and eggs to members.

Subscription farms have proliferated in Northern Nevada as more consumers demand locally grown food. Following is a list of farms currently accepting memberships.

Custom Gardens Organic Farm, 775-577-2069

Great Basin Basket, 775-351-2551

Rise & Shine Farms, 775-867-5605

Salisha’s Delicious, 775-427-5167

Sierra Edibles, 775-465-2810

For additional information on subscription farms or local produce, visit www.NevadaGrown.com, or call 775-351-2551.