Most of the CSAs I've researched allow for a 4 week trial for newbies, which is what I would suggest if you want to try out a few before committing. (Only problem is that some CSAs are really popular and have a waitlist)

I think that the biggest thing to get used to with CSAs is having a set amount of food that you don't get to choose every week. So if you go to a farmer's market to test out the experience, I would try to make it as close to the real thing by purchasing exactly what you would be getting through a CSA program (their weekly deliveries are usually posted on their website), in the same amount, and on the same day, every week. It really forces you to plan meals, not waste, and try new recipes with unfamiliar ingredients.

Good luck! I love my CSA!

Thanks rebeccatt! I had the same question :-)

Off to source CSA's now...

http://embritadesign.blogspot.com

I prefer going to the farmer's market. That way I know I'm getting products that I will use and the farmer's market season is usually the same as the CSA.

If you are worried about getting unusual food most CSAs have recipes lists on their websites.

I moved to a new state last April. I was coming off the CSA season from Miami (November to April) and heading to a Colorado CSA season (June to October). There are a lot of CSAs where I live now and only two had openings. They both suggested moving here first to meet them. I am glad I did, my job ended up sending me away a lot during the growing season. Instead I got to know a lot farmers at our bi-weekly markets when I was in town. I even helped one vendor out when I was in town with their stand (a great way to meet your new community BTW). So now that my first winter is here I know the farms much better and was able to choose a winter CSA that I feel has suited me pretty well.

Don't rush into anything. You have the farmer's markets (and intro short-term shares) to learn about the farms if you have a lot to choose from.

ooh, i feel famous! thanks for the advice, i'll see if any programs have a sample subscription, or look up which markets they'll be at and check them out commitment-free. yay!

I'm new to my area and I've never participated in a CSA before, but my partner and I are really interested. We're wondering about a couple things though:
1. There are just two of us at home, what size share is best? It seems most offer Half-shares as well as small, medium, or large Full-shares. Do we do a Half-Share or a Small Full-share?
2. Again, considering our family size, is a CSA really worth it? Or should we just focus on shopping regularly at local farmer's markets? I guess I'm asking: do CSAs save you money?

Thanks for any advice you can share!!

As someone who is half of a two member family, I have the following info/tips:

1. We did NOT save money. We just spent MORE money on vegetables that we never would have thought to buy (and didnt necessarily like, eek)
2. We would much rather opt for a debit system CSA that lets you use your credit from buying into the CSA as a debit card kind of each week so you have a choice of what you get each week.
3. We chose the "single share" at our farm which was actually enough for 3 people.
4.Be wary if your farm has a petting zoo...i showed up one day and those cute little lambies and piggies were gone! But I was told they'd be back next week...IN SHRINK WRAP!!! Horrible!
5. Choosing an organic farm (atleast in the northeast) basically means you'll get an apology in the newsletter every other week or so explaining that you COULD have enjoyed some beautiful broccoli had the worms not gotten to it all or that they are sorry each couple/family only gets ONE (measly 1.5" diameter) apple that week due to tent catepillars.

I had a love/hate relationship with our CSA last year. I'd love to do it again but the verdict is still out.

Good luck! I have a friend in California and apparently her CSA is AMAZING!

I'm signing up for a CSA for the first time this year and I can't wait..... I'm going for a full share that I will be sharing with a work friend. I know I may get things I don't know about, but I figure that because I like to cook it will be fun to come up with new meals base on what is in season and whats included in my share that week.

http://www.gearfoc.us

Jamie