Support Local

Four ways to source local meats

CSA is not the only way to source local meats

I’m a big believer in the “good for you, not for me” philosophy. That is - no one method of shopping/cooking/eating is better than any other. Diet is a very personal thing and it is my job as a farmer to help the folks I can help and connect others with resources that are better suited to their needs.

Since the CSA relationship lasts for six months I find being open and honest with potential members is the best way to ensure I am helping you meet your needs without wasting your time or money.

I’m not after the “gotcha” of getting you to sign a contract - if I think your needs would be better served by another farm in the community, I'll come out and tell you.
 

There's actually 4 main ways to purchase local meats (CSA being one of them) but you may find that your cooking style is better suited to another method and that's OK!


4 ways to source local meats

Butter basted bone in ribeye

1. By the cut

Purchase only the cuts you want as part of your weekly shopping trip to the farmer's market or farmstand

  • Pros: Easy, Buy only what you know you will cook

  • Cons: Can be seasonal, Most expensive method

  • Best for: People wanting to cook specific recipes or wanting to meal plan while at market to make use of the best ingredients in season right now.

2. By the box

Purchase a curated bulk box from a local farm (usually beef, pork or lamb or a mix)

  • Pros: Know exactly which cuts you will receive, some farms ship or deliver to your door

  • Cons: Can be seasonal, Limited box selection

  • Best for: “Butcher Box” customers looking to source their meats from small, local farms, Those preferring to buy online

3. By the side

Purchase a whole or half animal (usually beef or pork) and have the butcher cut to your specifications

  • Pros: Fills the freezer for a whole year, Economical

  • Cons: Additional freezer space required, Unfamiliar cuts of meat, Big one-time expense

  • Best for: Families, households who eat a lot of meat, People who meal plan batch cooking or freezer meals

4. By the CSA share

CSAs come in all shapes and sizes. Our pastured Meat CSA involves purchasing a share of the season's harvest of beef, pork, chicken, eggs and optional lamb.

  • Pros: Available year-round, Multiple species and cuts, Manageable quantities

  • Cons: Limited choice over cuts, Six month commitment

  • Best for: People seeking an ongoing relationship with their farmer and wanting a “one stop shop” for a reliable supply of staples like eggs and ground beef but also desiring a mix of other cuts for variety and to learn new recipes.


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Choosing local! If the pandemic illuminated anything, it was the fragile state of our food system. Buying local makes for a more resilient local food system for everyone. So whether you are a "by the cut" person, want to fill the freezer in the fall with a side of beef or are looking to join our pastured Meat CSA this summer, please, make the local choice.