Accessing the Harvest: The CAP/CSA Program

Local organically cultivated farm products

We recognize that most people will not choose to farm for themselves, so we hope our efforts will bring the farm experience closer for those who want it. We have developed Rainbeau Ridge with a commitment to the land and respect for the awesomeness of nature, hoping to impart this feeling to others.

Participation at Rainbeau Ridge can happen in a variety of ways—hands-on involvement, visits, consulting for home applications, workshops, cooking classes or eating the fruits of our labor.

We have a commitment to sustainable agriculture and a desire to educate consumers, particularly kids and families, about where and how food is grown, emphasizing an appreciation for seasonality and the rhythm of nature. We believe in the power of food experiences to build community—through meals, joint bread baking and other similar opportunities.

As we begin our sixth growing season in 2008, we will continue to bring our neighbors more of the high quality, delicious produce they’ve come to associate with Rainbeau Ridge. Also for sale are farm fresh eggs, our very own honey and maple syrup, goat cheese, pickles, pickled beans and other food items.

What’s CAP?
CAP is a mutual commitment between the grower (Rainbeau Ridge) and the customer, who, by committing to buy some of the season’s produce, makes an “investment” in local agriculture.

A variation of CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), CAP makes no requirement of its members to cultivate, wash, bag or deliver. We emphasize a gourmet mix of vegetables and herbs and do not overburden customers with easily grown staples.

Lettuce, harvested weekly throughout the season, includes over 30 varieties representing a broad range of flavors, textures and colors. In 2007, we added micro greens and sprouts and this year, we are adding additional varieties. As the summer progresses, customers can look forward to seasonal crops ranging from peas to beans to one of six varieties of cucumbers, eight types of eggplant and over 10 types of tomatoes to name just a few examples. “Bonus” crops, (eg. romanesco cauliflower, celeriac, fennel and other herbs and garlic) will augment our core and seasonal produce, introducing you to more unusual varieties.

From time to time, we will also offer fruits and vegetables supplied by local, third-party growers vetted by us for their quality and practices.

Benefits

• Quality & Access, Close to home growing means better flavor and freshness. It also helps preserve open space, keeps land viable, and reduces transportation costs.
• Organically cultivated farm produce, healthier product for you and your family
• Value, Competitive prices for high quality, local products
• Participatory, Builds community—join us for planting, harvesting and special events throughout the season

How to Join
We are now accepting registrations for CAP memberships for the 2008 season.  Click here for full details.