How to Eat Local

Run, don’t walk, to sign up for a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) slot. CSA’s list of nearby farmers deliver locally grown, farm-fresh produce straight to your doorstep or a pre-arranged pick-up spot. It is a booming business right now as it is supply chain-issue proof, as well as a healthy, organic option for you and your family.

Each CSA program works differently and grows different produce, but generally you sign up to “own” a share in a farm, pay a monthly fee, then a box of fresh produce is delivered to you on a weekly/bi-weekly/monthly basis. Some programs will tell you in advance what to expect—carrots, potatoes, watermelons—and others will surprise you!

As an added bonus, you will be buying your produce plastic-free as well as supporting local farmers and community gardens. It is a fantastic way to tend to the Earth and invest yourself with the natural seasonal harvests of Illinois.

There are also indoor winter farmer’s markets, which run until April in Wicker Park and on 61st Street, and until the end of March in the Green City Market. A number of outdoor farmer’s markets open in two months!

Leave a comment below or contact us at environment@lwvchicago.org.